The Odeon classic nights - Review

Reviewed by Regina Su

Vintage classics at a vintage cinema.

As you push your way through the glass doors of the Hornsby Odeon cinema, you are welcomed to the venue with a subtle waft of popcorn, a buttery kind of aroma that is infused in the furniture and carpets, the warm kind of smell that lingers and brings with it memories of another time. The Hornsby Odeon Cinema is a vintage cinema that is left in time.

Walk your way up the grand staircase and notice the chandeliers that bathe the foyer in a dim wash. As with any current cinema, new releases are shown and the Odeon is a venue with no exception. However, if you cast your eye just above and beyond the popcorn bar, you'll notice some friendly faces there to meet you. Beside the life-size Disney new release is a mounted frame from 'Gone with the Wind' and beside that, Marilyn Monroe greets you. Posters of Audrey Hepburn and her famous breakfast sit between the Three Stooges and Norman Bates. I guarantee, though, that a trip to the Odeon Cinema is no Hitchcock thriller.

On the contrary, the fantastic prices and combo deals, as well that fact that your ticket supports a local small business is thrilling enough to make you take the trip over to the old side of Hornsby. The cinema was opened in 1914 and sits directly opposite the train station. Affordable, and boasting 470 seats, the Odeon is a hidden gem in Hornsby, especially, when they hold their cult classic night. Every month or so, the Odeon holds a night dedicated to a classic film. In the past, they've shown 'The Blues Brothers' and their 106 miles to Chicago, they've gone 'Back to the Future' as well as shown 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show', among others. I paid the $9 for a Hitchcock marathon a few months ago and last night, a paid it again to see David Bowie in "The Labyrinth'. In a night of classic fun and entertainment, the cinema lowers ticket prices and entices movie-goers to go as their favourite character. Last night, I saw too many blonde mullets. Next time, perhaps late March or April (tba), I might see a sea of army uniforms as the Odeon brings back 'Forrest Gump'.

The Odeon cinema is a great complex in itself, but as a vintage cinema showcasing vintage classics, don't miss these opportunites to relive classic filmic blockbusters brought back to life.

 For more information, please visit http://www.hornsbyodeoncinema.com.au