Multiplexes replace single-screen halls

By Santosh Subedi,Pokhara, Sept. 26: There was a time when single-screen cinemas reigned supreme. People would line up to watch films. But with the rapid advancement of technology, many single-screen theaters began to decline. With the development of new technology for film exhibitions, old theaters have become increasingly rare.

Despite being established with investments worth millions, these theaters now face competition from platforms like YouTube and Netflix. In Pokhara, however, two single-screen theaters are still operational.

Currently, Shreekrishna Cinema Hall and Barahi ‘A and B’ are the only single-screen theaters running in Pokhara, while others have already closed.

 Operator Kedar Parajuli, who manages both theaters, said the business is average. “Even when we screen new films, most audiences prefer multiplexes with advanced facilities, though some middle-income moviegoers still come to the old theaters," he added.

Every type of audience requires a specific kind of hall. I do not think they should be shut down completely,” he said. Having operated the two halls for a year, Parajuli said he is satisfied with the business. He added that the theaters together have a seating capacity of about 2,000.

Bindabasini Hall, which opened in 1986, has been closed for the last six years. 

According to its operator, Uttam Dwa, the hall was forced to shut down due to declining audiences and the lack of new films.

“The quality of films went down, and with it, the number of audience. The business could not even cover the operating expenses,” he said. The hall had been screening more Nepali films compared to Hindi ones.

Earlier, when films stopped attracting audiences in Pokhara, many halls had to shut down completely. Dipjyoti Cinema Hall, Annapurna Cinema Hall, Mahalaxmi Cinema Hall, Purnima Hall, and Kalpana Cinema Hall are among those that have already closed.

Pokhara is now home to two multiplex theaters, like Midtown Galleries and QFX.  After Bindabasini Hall shut down, Uttam Dwa, who managed it, launched Midtown Cinema at Sabhagrihachowk. He said that with single-screen halls failing, the family decided to move into the multiplex business, which has brought them success.

“As audiences’ tastes change, it is necessary to add facilities and operate theaters accordingly. Running a hall is an old business for me, and it’s going fine,” he said.

According to him, however, even multiplexes struggle to cover costs with ticket sales alone. “The hall’s expenses, including electricity and lighting, come to around Rs. 900,000 per month. The business mainly survives on popcorn and coffee sales,” he added.