Cinemas became a major news topic following the releases of Barbie and Oppenheimer which helped the film industry bounce back from the pandemic.
But its not all good news, with one of Birmingham's most prized assets closing its doors - and under threat of demolition. There has been upset across the city and beyond at the sudden closure of The Electric cinema on Station Street. The glamorous art deco building was Britain's oldest working cinema, serving audiences since 1909 - thousands have signed a petition to save The Electric.
Birmingham still has a number of top cinemas for people across the city to enjoy the best new films in the city centre including, Everyman Mailbox, the Mockingbird Cinema in Digbeth and the Odeon on Broadway Plaza, to name a few.
Although times have changed as the city was once home to many cinemas and there are several that no longer in use. Although number of the old buildings have been knocked down, cinema buildings are still a fascinating important tool when examining the history of Birmingham through the decades.
Some of the lost buildings which once showed Hollywood blockbusters are still standing in the city today although they are somewhat rundown. So, let’s take a look at Birmingham’s lost cinemas.
9. Savoy Cinema, Pershore Road, Kings Norton
The Savoy Cinema opened its doors on Pershore Road in Kings Norton in 1933. It closed in February 1958 with a final showing of the film ‘Women’s Prison’. Today, the former cinema building operates as Graham Plumbers Merchant | Google
10. Olton Cinema, Warwick Road, Solihull
Olton cinema opened its doors in October 1933, and closed almost 40 years after in 1972. The building was demolished and replaced by office blocks, as seen pictured above | Google