It’s a rainy day in otherwise friendly Tbilisi, most theatres are on summer break, the most inspiring museums have already been visited, so a day at the cinema is the obvious choice. The tourist-friendly capital has a good selection of films in English. The selection includes not only blockbusters that will make the cash register ring, but also films that are artistically sophisticated and outside the mainstream.
As a fan of small, cosy cinemas, which are unfortunately disappearing more and more in Europe, my path leads me to the Amirani Cinema, which fortunately is not integrated into a shopping centre. Originally opened in 1969, the cinematic venue has been modernised several times and now has 4 screens, and is able to provide 3D screenings. During the European Championship 2024, the football matches of the Georgian national team were also broadcast at Amirani Cinema Tbilisi. Despite this, the atmosphere remains nostalgic and the design is deliberately minimalist.
Amirani Cinema Information
Address: Merab Kostava St, 36
E-mail: kinosainformacio@gmail.com
Website and Tickets: Click Here
Prices: 10-16 ₾
Georgian and international Movies
Most comfortable seats in Tbilisi
Small but nice and with plenty of comfort
I’m pleasantly surprised as soon as I arrive at reception, there are hardly any people in the foyer and no queues. I am greeted in a friendly manner and immediately asked about my wishes. Within five minutes I have my ticket, popcorn, a drink and the Wi-Fi password. Tickets can also be purchased online in advance at TKT.
Large selection of English-language movies
Tickets can be purchased online or on site
Friendly staff who speak perfect English
Moderate prices
Comfortable, upholstered cinema seats that can be adjusted as desired
I eagerly make my way into the auditorium of the Amirani Cinema, the last row, foot free. There are very few people there, all sitting at a generous distance from me. After I have made myself comfortable in the spacious leather armchair, my eyes fall on the small remote control. Naturally, I have to try out all the buttons and am delighted to realise that the chair can be adjusted. After a few minutes I have found the perfect sitting position, shoes off, legs up, I am completely convinced that this will be the most relaxed cinema visit of my life so far.
A necessary evil? Dozens of adverts
The lights go out on time and the adverts start. Trailers for new movies are always interesting and the insights into the Georgian in-house productions are particularly impressive. Adverts for beer, burgers, smartphones and vaccinations alternate randomly and almost endlessly with the film recommendations; it seems chaotically thrown together and quickly becomes boring. The whole thing takes at least 20 minutes in the Amirani Cinema Tbilisi, my popcorn is almost empty and I’m brainwashed and annoyed by all the unnecessary advertising.
Just when I’ve given up all hope of seeing the main film, it finally starts. The screening at Amirani Cinema Tbilisi is in English with Georgian subtitles, and the picture and sound are in no way inferior to the 18 € quality of overprized European cinemas without any charm. Thanks to the comfortable chairs, even extra-long movies can be enjoyed without limbs falling asleep.
After leaving the movie theatre at the end of the film, I find it very pleasant that there is no sound system in the lobby. There are no moving film posters in the Amirani Cinema, there are no people to be seen for miles around and the lighting is pleasantly subdued. No need for sensory overload, making it the best cinema in Tbilisi for me. Comfortable seating invites you to linger. There is apparently also a café in the upper area, but it was closed at the time of my visit. Overall, the interior is elegant and understated. The gallery is spartanly decorated with carefully selected film posters.
Best Cinema Tbilisi Experience - with a feel Good Factor
To summarise, it was a very pleasant afternoon at this amazing cinema. Apart from the interminable adverts, there is nothing to criticise. The absence of flashy furnishings or loud music makes it possible to enjoy the film undisturbed.
The prices are moderate at 16 ₾ for the best seats and they provide snacks and drinks for affordable rates. The experience is comparable to a film evening in your own living room, there are no disturbing factors. The pleasure is only spoilt by the long opening credits. To avoid this, I will simply arrive a few minutes late next time. If you like it quiet and comfortable and are looking for entertainment away from the crowds, this is the perfect choice.
If you fancy a cup of high-quality tea, heavenly cakes and a few cats to stroke after the cinema, you should do a small march to the Gallery Tea House diagonally opposite.
