Editorial | Inject some life into Hong Kong’s fading cinemas
A proposal to ease licensing so that movie theatres can host live performances or sports broadcasts could help to flip the script on closures
Film lovers in Hong Kong have been forced to watch the demise of a string of local cinemas in recent months. However, the latest closure will not result in the screens staying dark for good, raising hopes that the industry can flip the script so it can survive and thrive.
The final shows at Golden Harvest’s MegaBox cinema drew a steady stream of regulars and curious locals to snap up HK$40 (US$5) closing-day discount tickets. Located in a huge shopping centre and next to an ice rink, the seven-screen complex made history when it opened in 2007. It was the city’s first to offer a massive IMAX experience. Now it has been swept up in a wave of at least nine venues that have shut down or suspended operations in 2024.
Already this year, the Newport Theatre in Mong Kok and the Grand Kornhill Cinema in Quarry Bay have closed. On June 1, one of Hong Kong’s oldest cinemas, the Golden Harvest Grand Ocean Cinema in Tsim Sha Tsui, closed its doors for good after 56 years.
The Hong Kong Theatre Association said that as of May, only 51 cinemas were operating in the city, down from 112 in 1994. The spiral accelerated amid the pandemic, when streaming services allowed many to form a habit of binge-watching at home. The sector is not alone.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu recently discussed the retail scene struggles as many locals head across the border to mainland China. Lee has urged businesses to “work harder” to respond and adapt to market changes. One idea to help open doors to fresh ideas was pitched by lawmaker Kenneth Fok Kai-kong. The sports, performing arts, culture and publication representative said licensing should be eased so cinemas could host live performances or sports broadcasts. Innovation plans could be derailed as some cinemas struggle with operational issues. The Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers says one major obstacle is when operators fail to reach rental agreements with landlords before their leases expire.
The MegaBox shopping centre, at least, is not giving up on keeping a cinema as a tenant. CineArt is scheduled to take over the location next month with upgraded design and facilities that will hopefully set the scene for a crowd-pleasing sequel.