Today, I ventured to the new luxury Curzon cinema, tucked away in the top corner of the Bentall Centre. The question on my mind as I anticipated the film: is it worth the extra money or is it a superficial experience? Is it just an overpriced odeon?

 

pThe interior of this newly built cinema features a pizzeria and a bar and it certainly has its own identity. The Curzon cinema pursues an old-timey cinema feel, its walls adorned with the work of Edward Muybridge, a Kingston local, and a distinctly art deco decor. As well as this, the screens share their names with other notable cinemas (Electric, Palace, Century) a touch, I found quite charming. Upon first impressions, it is certainly a step up from the Odeon where in the lobby you usually find popcorn and other cinema snacks strewn across the floor. I knew I was in for a whole different experience to any usual cinema trip when I saw that the ice cream was called gelato.

 

The Curzon boasts that it is a “luxury cinema” and the service and staff certainly uphold this luxury status. The service is a notable difference from any other cinema as it is attentive and it feels a lot more personal than the Odeon. You can order from their extensive menu straight to your seat, which I must say is very comfortable. and this is very noticeable in these respects. How apt that the film I went to see was Empire of Light, a celebration of cinema and the power it holds to bring people together. 

 

The question still remains, however, is it worth the money. I believe that it definitely is, as it is not only a cinema trip but an experience. It is nice for a treat (or if someone else is paying!) but it would definitely break the bank for any regular cinema goers. I was surprised at the lack of knowledge from Kingston residents about the cinemas existence. It is certainly something that people should be aware of and try out.