Neil McDonough

Movie madness

Property choices for movie buffs


I'm sure it can't have escaped your notice that only two weeks ago the world of cinema and Hollywood celebrated itself in the usual glitz and glamour of the oscars. Many of the movies that won awards are currently showing in the cinemas around Bangkok, and over the course of the next few months others will be released.

Unlike other parts of Thailand which mainly have cinemas showing either Thai movies or Hollywood movies with a 'Thai soundtrack' i.e. a Hollywood movie which has been dubbed over, so that a very limited number of Thai actors do the voices for a wide range of Hollywood actors, Bangkok often shows movies with the original soundtrack. The audience therefore doesn't have to put up with the same Thai actor doing the voice for Hugh Jackman, Russell Crowe & Anne Hathaway in the same scene, which seemed to be the case in Les Miserables. This therefore allows foreigners and Thais who can read subtitles, to enjoy fully the performances of the actors earning multi-millions of dollars for their work.

If you are new to Bangkok, you'll be pleased to hear that there are dozens of well-run and well-maintained cinemas in Bangkok located often close to or linked to a BTS or MRT station, but in this article we'll just cover a few of the main ones and some suitable properties that are found within walking distance of the cinemas.

If you are interested in living on Sukhumvit like many expats, then there are three main cinema complexes, all with multi-screens and English language films showing every day. They are in Ekamai, Phrom Phong and the newest located in Asoke. The cinema in Ekamai is surrounded by the best value property of the three cinema destinations on Sukhumvit road. One great example of this is the Tree 42 condominium located less than 10mins walk from the cinema complex in Ekamai, which has 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom units in a very stylish modern condominium. And on the way from the Tree 42 condo to the cinema, residents will also pass the brand-new Gateway mall with shops, restaurants and a supermarket.

Further down the track at Asoke where the BTS and MRT lines meet there is another large cinema complex attached to the BTS station. The building, Terminal 21 also houses shops, a supermarket and restaurants. There are many good quality condos, apartments and service apartments within walking distance of the cinema complex, but perhaps the best value for money is the Bkk Citismart condo located only 5mins walk from both the BTS/MRT station. With excellent facilities including two jacuzzis and a squash court this is a great value property given the location.

Moving further down the MRT track towards Ratchada, there is a cinema located at the Esplanade shopping mall. There are several brand new apartments and condos within 1-2 stations of this mall, but it is also possible to walk to the cinema from the Amanta residence. A very well constructed condominium, built around a beautiful landscaped garden and pool area. The Amanta Ratchada is only within a 5-minute walk of the popcorn and big screens located at the cinema in the Esplanade. This condo is an excellent choice for families and couples a like and has a feel of a quality resort, in the heart of Bangkok.

However English language cinemas are not only found on the BTS and MRT lines and neither are good quality condos. Pinklao, although not connected to the BTS or MRT has good quality condos and 2 English language cinemas. Located close to those cinemas are condos such as LPN Park Pinklao which houses studio, one bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom condos. At a very reasonable cost these condos allow for quality living in Bangkok at a low costs. Plus any movie fans can get to see their latest films easily and regularly.

So if you're looking for a fix of western entertainment, or just have to see your favorite movie star, or director's latest creation, you can get your tickets at one of the above venues or one of the many other cinemas not covered in this blog. The further convenience of living within walking distance of the cinema (which often houses eateries and other retail outlets) may enhance your lifestyle perfectly.


Neil McDonough is a Director of EasyHomes Property Services Co., Ltd. which specializes in renting and selling Bangkok residential and commercial property to expats. You can contact him directly with any questions or queries relating to Thai real estate




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