From 8mm projectors to the rise of the Dolby Surround Sound system, movie theaters continue to upgrade the way we view films. Several unique cinemas have popped up right here in Metro Manila, looking to enhance the movie immersion experience.

This weekend, try something new and check out one (if not all) of these next level cinemas!

UP Town Center’s 4DX Cinema (P500)

Photo courtesy of Aimee Dacanay via Spot PH

216 Katipunan Ave, Diliman, Quezon City, Metro Manila

Seating Capacity: 98

This Katipunan cinema is the first of its kind in the northern Manila area. In partnership with CJ4DPlex, a South Korean augmented technology company, it uses carefully choreographed effects, such as seat motion, wind, rain, and lights to simulate the environment happening in a specific scene.

In addition to the 4DX theater, UP Town Center also has a Dolby Atmos theater equipped with La-Z-boy reclining chairs and two Dolby Digital theaters.

Cinematheque Centre Manila (Price varies)

Photo courtesy of Spot PH

855 Kalaw Ave, Ermita, Manila, Metro Manila

Seating Capacity: 101

A cinematheque is a theatre that showcases unconventional and historically important films, but the Cinematheque Center Manila is so much more. This Metro Manila Cinematheque houses a film museum, classrooms, and, very soon, a library.

Many filmmakers and directors regularly hold classes and seminars on theater, cinema, and production here. Dedicated to the restoration and appreciation of classic Filipino films, it re-releases films from the 70s as well as avant-garde student films.

Moviegoers and visitors can also spend their time in the souvenir shop and the café.

The SM Malls’ Director’s Club (P450)

Photo courtesy of Aimee Dacanay via Spot PH

Selected SM Malls

Seating Capacity: 40

With theaters in seven SM malls across the Philippines (SM Mall of Asia, SM Aura Premiere, SM Megamall, SM BF Parañaque, S Maison in Conrad Manila, SM CDO Downtown Premiere, and SM Seaside City Cebu), the Director’s Club Cinema provides the most comfortable and luxurious movie experience.

Each theater is equipped with 40 La-Z-Boy Power Recline XR+ seats, in-house butler service, and an exclusive food menu. The cinemas can be reserved as a venue for corporate events, and private screenings.

Cinema ‘76 (P150)

Photo courtesy of MadHouse

160 Luna Mencias St., Addition Hills, San Juan, Metro Manila

Seating Capacity: 60

Named after the “Golden Year” of Philippine films, Cinema ‘76 shows a mixture of both local indie films and classic Filipino movies. This theater presents an ever-changing movie lineup that allows indie film enthusiasts the opportunity to catch their favorites.

Instead of conventional movie seats, this theater provides cozy couches that create a more relaxed and intimate setting.

The cinema also holds acting workshops and film master classes.