PHOTO ESSAY | The emergence of streaming platforms has impacted cinemas that were once lively during the school holidays, with parents bringing their children to be entertained.

Once thriving and buzzing, they are increasingly deserted.

Such is the fate of the Coliseum Theatre in Kuala Lumpur which has been operating for over 104 years.

The building housing the Coliseum Theatre was constructed in 1920

Built in 1920 by the Chua family led by prominent businessperson Chua Cheng Bok, the building is known for screening Tamil blockbusters.

However, many may not know that it also showed classic Malay movies once upon a time.

Coliseum cinema manager Shamala, 32, said cinemas are now struggling to maintain operations, especially since movies can now be downloaded for free.

However, Shamala said, cinema still has hope as certain films still manage to attract viewers to leave the screen at home and there are still audiences who want to see their favourite actors on the big screen.

A worker checking the projector before screening the movie
A moviegoer deeply engrossed in the film
The light reflection of the projector displays the movie being shown
Popcorn is a must at the movies
A man picks his seat
Parents bring their schoolchildren to the movies during the school holidays
An action-packed Tamil movie
Eyes firmly fixed on the big screen
Posters tell of upcoming blockbusters
At the corner of Lorong Tuanku Abdul Rahman 4

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