Hundreds of movie palaces were built in England during the 1930′s by Odeon with architecture influenced by the art deco and Ballhaus movements. Many seated more than 4000 people. They were single theaters, not multiplexes, serving the movie-going public in the years leading up to World War II. According to a fascinating article by Chris Michael at the Guardian UK Film Blog, only 18 remain standing today. Most function as bingo halls or banquet palaces. Of those built in the British city of Birmingham, only one continues to function as a movie theater. The Empire, situated in the suburban district of Sutton, still uses an ancient projector almost 60 years old. But change is coming (or may have arrived) as the theater is slated to go digital in April 2010.
See photos and read more about the art deco movie palaces of Birmingham on the Guardian UK Film Blog.
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