The Legacy of Cathay Cineplexes
Established in 1939 in the iconic Cathay Building, Cathay Cineplexes introduced air-conditioned cinemas to Singapore and popularized Western films locally. Designed by Frank W. Brewer, the Cathay Building was Singapore's first skyscraper and featured cinema halls, a hotel, and office spaces. Over the decades, Cathay grew into a household name, operating up to 75 cinemas at its peak, including the unique Jurong Drive-In Cinema in the 1970s.
Cathay was instrumental in shaping Singapore's cinematic culture, screening Hollywood hits such as Blue Hawaii and hosting arthouse films via The Picturehouse. Corporate developments included mergers, acquisitions by mm2 Asia in 2017, and the gradual closure of cinemas, culminating in the 2022 Orchard Road closure and 2025 full shutdown. The building's heritage facade was preserved during the 2025 renovation, blending history with modern entertainment facilities.
Cathay Organisation, originally Associated Theatres Ltd, expanded regionally and diversified into film production and real estate. In 1959 it formally became Cathay Organisation. The company pioneered modern cineplex concepts, introduced arthouse screenings with The Picturehouse, and even expanded overseas, opening cinemas in Dubai in 2007.
Despite these innovations, rising costs and streaming competition led to gradual closures. The iconic Orchard Road cineplex closed in 2022, Cineleisure Orchard and Parkway Parade in 2023, and by 2025 all Cathay Cineplexes had ceased operations. The Cathay Building remains a cultural and architectural landmark, symbolizing Singapore's cinematic history.
