There’s no doubt about it: Hollywood has landed on Singapore’s shores. Capitol Theatre is putting their best foot forward this year by featuring some of the best classic films of all time in its hallowed halls.
Gene Kelly. Alec Guinness. Cary Grant. These are just a few of the legendary, larger-than-life actors who have cemented their stars on Hollywood Boulevard—and their names in the hearts of movie lovers around the world. And now, you can see their charisma firsthand on the silver screen at Capitol Theatre.
The theatre’s roots run deep. Since 1930, it has been an institution of cinema, a symbol of rich community and fine art showcasing films from every corner of the world. So it’s only fitting that they’re reviving Tinseltown’s heyday as part of their ‘Classics At Capitol’ program, where the venue will play host to a series of limited screenings for one classic film each month, starting from February onwards.
Kicking things off are three newly restored digital versions of classic films—all-time greats—curated by film lecturer and writer Dr Ben Slater: Singin’ in the Rain (1952), Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and North by Northwest (1962). These three films signal a clear intention to embrace community in the new year, gathering together cinephiles from around Singapore to journey across genres and immerse themselves in storytelling at its very finest.
Singin’ in the Rain is simply pure entertainment. Gene Kelly and company sing and dance their hearts out, affirming everything that makes the ritual of going to the cinemas special. Lawrence of Arabia is an epic in every sense of the word, with magnificent set pieces and a sweeping narrative that captures the breadth of history and humanity in equal parts. And North by Northwest is a thrilling action-adventure romp from none other than Alfred Hitchcock, setting standards by which some of the most beloved film franchises of all time, from James Bond to Mission Impossible, take cues from to this very day.
These tales are worth seeing at any time of any day, regardless of the setting. However, there’s something truly unique about witnessing their magic on the big screen. Where better to do justice to some of the greatest stories ever told than at Singapore’s last standing great palace of performance? Few things last forever, but thanks to Capitol Theatre, the old school cool of film is definitely here to stay.
Book your tickets here.
