The Astor Theatre

Specialties

The Astor is one of the last single screen movie palaces left in the world, showing movies continuously since being built in 1936, and transporting you to a time when going to the movies was an event.

The Astor is dedicated to providing a way to see cult favourites, golden era classics and select new releases the way they were intended to be seen, and in a unique and special way outside of the typical multiplex experience.

We screen 35 mm and rare 70 mm prints, as well as the newer 2K and 4K DCP digital formats. We regularly screen hard to find classics and favorites. Every night is a Double Feature (except occasional single features (usually longer movies, classic epics or special re-​release seasons).

The Astor boasts the finest film and digital experience in Australia and is a unique atmosphere that is second to none. Plus we are home to the world famous huge choc-​ices and the our resident cat Marzipan, who lives in the theatre. Come and share in our passion for the movies

History

Established in 1936.

The Astor Theatre is a cinema in the grand, old manner. The theatre’s proud boast is Fine Films and Atmosphere and it is now the last single screen cinema of its kind in continuous operation in Melbourne, still standing since its grand opening over 75 years ago.

When you walk into The Astor you are transported back to the days when going to the cinema was an EVENT. The cinema was built in the 1930s and still retains the art-​deco charm of that period. You are greeted by soft lighting and gentle music — you can relax in the somewhat-​overstuffed chairs and enjoy some of The Astor’s famous cake.

The Astor Theatre is a classic, single-​screen cinema with stalls and a dress circle — the overall seating capacity of 1,150 is reduced from the original 1,700 — and the magnificent auditorium has the same, soft ambience that you will have enjoyed in the foyers. Beautiful golden curtains cover the screen, which part majestically to begin the evening’s (or matinée’s) entertainment.