MOVIE goers have been left in awe of the “most beautiful cinema in the world” which is fitted out with plush seats and an on-site bar.
Amsterdam’s Tuschinski Theatre is a sight to behold with its mixture of Art Deco and Art Nouveau stylings.
Even its eye-catching frontage makes it stand out from the other buildings near Rembrandtplein.
The theatre was founded by Abraham Tuschinski, along with his brothers-in-law Hermann Gerschtanowitz and Hermann Ehrlich.
Construction began in June 1919 with Tuschinski wanting to open with the first theatre organ in the Netherlands.
Wurlitzer though couldn’t deliver on time so Tuschinski went to Brussels to get one from another cinema.
It opened its doors to the public in October 1921 to great fanfare with one Dutch newspaper writing: “We declare before us generously that the wildest expectations have been exceeded and that Mr. Tuschinski has donated a theatre to our country, of which are unparalleled.”
During World War II and the occupation of the Netherlands by the Nazis, Tuschinski was fired with the German film company Tobis Film taking over.
Tuschinski was later deported to Auschwitz where he didn’t survive.
The site was declared a national monument in 1967 due to its distinctive architecture.
In 1983 the Nöggerath Cinema, which was located on the same block, was acquired and renamed Tuschinski 3.
The entire complex was sold in 1985 to Cannon and again in 1991 to MGM Cinemas.
Pathe then acquired the MGM Cinemas chain in the Netherlands, including Tuschinski, in 1995.
The cinema was renovated from 1998 to 2002 to its original style and a corridor was constructed to Tuschinski 3, giving the complex a total of 6 auditoriums.
Pathe renovated the complex again in the lead up to the cinema’s centennial in 2021, this time auditorium 2 was brought back to its former glory.
Also the foyer Bar Abraham was opened.
During the centennial, Time Out called Tuschinski “the most beautiful cinema in the world”.
Many online reviewers would agree with that sentiment.
One person wrote earlier this year: “This is a stunning cinema in a converted old theatre with gorgeous red velvet seating, both individual and double seats as well as boxes. We paid €25 each for a box, a free snack and drink and a great view of the big screen. Simply one of the best cinemas I have ever been to.”
Another said: “I like to come here sometimes for a movie.
“This building which was opened in 1921 has a façade with a combination of the Art Deco, Jugendstil and the Amsterdams School styles.
“It is certainly worth taking a quick look inside, for free, just to admire the breathtakingly beautiful foyer, even if one does not actually have the time for a movie.”
A third added: “Well worth a visit to look around an extraordinary place, a must if you enjoy art deco and art nouveaux and the VIP lounge was lovely.”
While a fourth said: “I’ve watched hundreds of movies in theatres across the world and this is by far the most beautiful I have ever encountered.
“Each room, wall, chair, and ceiling is ornately decorated with such a wonderful style and character that reminds you of the golden era of early 20th century fine furnishing.
“Marble staircases lead you to wood furnished rooms and comfortable love seats which make you feel like you’re at home.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever been more comfortable in a theatre and the grand screen in the middle of the theatre is a sight to behold.
“If you’re looking for a place to watch a movie you can’t pass up this experience.”
