Thais love movies, and the country's biggest cities are loaded with movie theaters and massive cinema complexes. Buying a ticket to see a movie in Thailand is a a lot like buying concert tickets in the West. You pick out a specific seat for a specific showing. At the ticket window, you'll be shown a computer screen with all the theater's seats shown on a schematic. The available seats are in one color, and the sold seats in another. You choose the seats you want, and the tickets are issued for those specific seats. Some seats cost more.
For example, there is a row in the middle of the movie theater with double room for your legs, about 4 extra feet. These seats cost about 60 cents more.
VIP Seating
There is also a separate theater called "VIP seating" at a higher price. At most cinema chains, the VIP theater is upstairs at a different level, and has a private lounge. You can relax in cushy chairs have a drink, and the attendants will let you know when the previews are starting. You can order your popcorn and drinks, and they will be brought to you later. Inside the theater, the seats themselves are large, full sized recliners with lots of padding - and a foot rest. These are arranged in groups of two, with an empty space between each group of two seats. You and your date will have lots of privacy. You're also given a blanket. During the previews, two pretty girls will bring you your popcorn and drinks.Thai cinemas are cold. They keep the air conditioning at max freezing level. I usually wear long sleeves, and sometimes bring an extra t-shirt. The sound and picture quality are impressive in Thai movie theaters. 3D screens are increasingly popular. Normal movie seats range from $5 to $6, depending on your seat choice. The VIP seating ranges from $12 to $18, depending on the cinema chain.
Standing for the National Anthem
Before the movie starts, you will have to stand for an homage to the King. After the "coming attractions" and before the start of the film, they will play a 90 second tribute to their King, and you will be required to stand. Don't even think about staying seated. Aside from the rude aspect of not respecting the country you're visiting, you could be arrested. That would be a real spur in your vacation. One minute of standing will not hurt you.
Language Choices
Most Thai movies will have English subtitles. If you're watching a Hollywood feature, such as Harry Potter or Spider-man, there will be two versions. Several screens will show the movie dubbed in Thai only, and 1 screen will feature the original soundtrack and voices in English, with Thai subtitles. Make sure you get the right screen. They are clearly marked as either "soundtrack" or "Thai." Soundtrack means the original soundtrack, whether it's English, or a Japanese movie, etc. Korean and Japanese films are also popular in Thailand, and the are shown in their original language with Thai subtitles. There will be no English for such features. Just be aware of this.
The most extravagant theaters are at Siam Paragon and Esplanade in Bangkok, expensive but impressive. IMAX and 3D screens are also available there. The most unique venue is the Lido Cinema at Siam Square, which shows independent and art films. SF Cinema and Major Cineplex chains stretch across the country. Wednesdays are half price.
The usual restriction apply: no phones, no smoking, etc. They actually enforce the cell phone rule. I wish cinemas in the US would do that! People tend to be a bit more respectful in Asia regarding phones, talking, and no disturbances during movies. All in all, I have found the movie going experience in Thailand to be a bit more enjoyable than the US or European counterparts.
I especially like choosing my exact set of seats for the movie at SF Cinema City in Bangkok.
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