Filmgarde shuts down last cinema in Kallang after 18 years

Singapore cinema operator Filmgarde Cineplexes has shut its last movie theatre in Kallang after 18 years in business.

The closure was spotted and shared by a Facebook user on Mar. 23.

The operator said that it is "embarking on a new chapter" and thanked supporters, in a Facebook statement on Mar. 25.

Cinema front dimmed and barricaded

A picture of the cinema front shared by user Bright Light showed the counter area with its lights off and empty concession shelves.

Marketing banners for ticket prices and installations on the wall and floor bearing the operator's logos remained intact.

"Saying the final goodbye to Filmgarde the only outlet in Kallang Leisure Park," the user wrote.

Located on the third floor of shopping mall Kallang Leisure Park, the cinema first opened its doors to the public in 2007.

In January 2022, Filmgarde closed its other two cinemas, citing "changing trends in the film industry".

"Embarking on a new chapter": Filmgarde

The cinema operator shared their sentiments and thanked Filmgarde teams, audiences and partners for their support throughout the years.

"We lit up our first cinema screen back in 2007 when we knew absolutely nothing about what we were getting into," they wrote.

"It has been an absolute journey marked by non-stop learning, countless memorable occasions, and even little moments of pride that helped keep us going over the years!" Filmgarde said.

The operator added that they are proud to be the only cinema in Singapore to screen the Oscar-winning film ROMA with director Alfonso Cuarón in attendance at its former Bugis+ cinema in 2018.

"But we could not have done this all by ourselves and we have been especially humbled by, and grateful for the support that our team, audiences and partners have so graciously given us during this cinematic journey of ours.

Thank you for believing in us, for holding our hands and for embracing us and our little cinemas."

Filmgarde said that they were "moved" by the dedication and determination of the local film community towards their "profession and craft" and felt "privileged" to have exclusively screened "some of the most captivating local films".

They said that they are embarking on a "new chapter of development and adventure", while still focusing on film and culture as part of their personal mission.

The operator also encouraged cinemagoers to "keep watching the movies" and "stay tuned" to its online space.

Mothership has reached out to Kallang Leisure Park for comment.

Top photos via Google Maps & Bright Light/Facebook