It has been a sombre few months since the closure of The Projector. Long regarded as one of Singapore’s most beloved film spaces, it stood as a cultural institution—drawing film buffs, creatives, and curious minds alike into a world filled with cinema, conversation, and community.
It comes as little surprise, then, that the local independent arts scene is buzzing with renewed optimism this year. Enter Filmhouse, Singapore’s newest enclave for cinephiles. Founded by a long-time patron of The Projector (who has chosen to remain anonymous), Filmhouse sets out to revive the underground film scene with fresh energy and a clear purpose. To realise this vision, the founder has brought on board several of The Projector’s core team members, including former general manager Sharon Tan and longtime head of programming Walter Navarro.
Occupying the familiar—and iconic—space at Golden Mile Tower, Filmhouse is determined to keep the spirit of creativity alive through a carefully considered slate of films. Currently in its soft-opening phase, the refurbished venue is rolling out an impressive programme that includes acclaimed titles such as Hamnet and Sentimental Value, alongside lesser-known gems that (equally) deserve their moment on the big screen. After nearly a decade on The Projector’s programming team, Navarro shares, “Our programming will spotlight cult classics, the best of world cinema, vibrant Singaporean and Asian storytelling, and prestige studio titles—while continuing to support independent and international film festivals, local film schools, and country-led showcases.”
Beyond individual screenings, Filmhouse’s programme is thoughtfully designed around thematic concepts. February, for instance, unfolds under the banner Love Is A Monster, an exploration of love in all its contradictions—messy, toxic, painful, yet equally capable of tenderness and joy.
Another highlight is the Found Family Film Series, which spotlights stories of chosen families and intentional kinship through films such as Linda Linda Linda and Nomadland. Spaces like Filmhouse—and The Projector, before it—have long served as safe havens for marginalised communities. It feels only fitting, then, that Filmhouse continues this legacy by celebrating voices that are often neglected. This commitment takes shape in the return of Pink Screen, with the cinema set to mark Pride Month by unveiling a slate of films that champion inclusivity and diversity in all its forms.
Arriving when it’s needed most, Filmhouse comes to fill the void left by The Projector. While it may still be premature to guess how Filmhouse will shape the creative community in Singapore, one thing is clear: when the creative community comes together, even loss can give way to renewal.
Filmhouse, Golden Mile Tower, 6001 Beach Road, #05-00, Singapore 199589
