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Dublin Live
Dublin Live
Entertainment
Brian Dillon

Dublin cinemas: The best movie experiences in the city

What is great about having so many cinemas in Dublin is that there are plenty of unique movie experiences to be had, from boutique old-school picture houses to more modern, immersive blockbuster journeys.

Here are seven of the best cinema experiences to be had in Dublin.

Screen Unseen at Odeon

Like the name would suggest, Screen Unseen at Odeon Cinemas is a surprising movie experience, so much so that you actually don't even know what you are going to see. For just €5, you get to see movies before anyone else at a special screening. It could be any genre, except horror.

You will find Odeon in Coolock, Stillorgan, Blanchardstown, Charlestown and Point Square.

Lighthouse

With Smithfield being the up and coming cultural quarter that it is, it is no surprise that it is home to a bespoke picture house that shows movies you are not likely to find anywhere else, as well as all of the latest blockbusters.

Before heading into the auditorium, you can enjoy a coffee and sweet treat at their ground level cafe, or you can grab yourself a bucket of popcorn and a beer to enjoy in there.

IFI

Similarly, the Irish Film Institute shows an array of movies you won't be able to see in the mainstream cinema chains. If you want to dabble in independent films (both Irish and international), then this is the place to go.

The Irish Film Institute (instagram.com/irishfilminstitute)

4DX at Cineworld

You don't just watch the movie. You also smell it and feel it too. 4DX at Cineworld brings what's on screen to life with stimulating effects like water, wind, scent and strobe lighting. Oh, and your seat actually moves.

4DX experience at Cineworld on Parnell Street (instagram.com/cineworld)

The Stella

Cocktails, diner style food, wine, beer, a massive screen, couches and even beds. The Stella is a cinema experience like no other in the city, taking inspiration from 1920s prohibition which is evident as soon as you enter the building in Rathmines.

The opulent Stella Cinema in Rathmines (Supplied)

Brooks Hotel

Brooks Hotel offers private screenings, accommodating up to 26 guests. You can even order cocktails to go along with your movie night.

The hotel offers overnight packages which includes a cinema experience as well. You can find out more here.

The Sugar Club

Based on Leeson Street is a music, entertainment and movie venue that is worth having on your Dublin bucket list. With plush tiered banquet seating and a large screen, this venue has kept its roots as the Irish Film Theatre, often hosting movies screenings and events.

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