Astor Theatre

"The theatre is a real piece of history. You can literally feel it when you’re inside. The jazz moderne style is fascinating. All the decorations and amenities it has were reminding you it has seen some good old times. And it’s one of the few single-screen cinemas in the world. The screen and sound system is new and worked really well though and we enjoyed the film."

Chang Guan

"I visited the Astor Theatre in April 2025 and had an absolutely brilliant night. I went with my partner and her cousin to see ‘Alien’, a classic being shown as part of a double feature with ‘Alien 2’ playing afterwards. We didn’t stick around for the second film, but it was incredible to experience the original on the big screen, and in such a beautiful, classic cinema setting.

We arrived around 6 pm and met in the small foyer dining area. There were several booths and tables available, and we grabbed one before ordering some beers. There’s no beer on tap, just bottled options, along with the usual movie snacks like popcorn, lollies, chocolates, and chips. Before heading into the cinema, I popped back to grab a glass bottle of Coke, some popcorn, and a choc top that tasted almost homemade.

I really loved the downstairs set up, with its carefully preserved, old school charm that transports you back to the golden age of cinema. The Astor originally opened in 1936 and it’s clear they’ve kept its charm. The bar and snack counter, complete with red velvet ropes and vintage theming, perfectly matched the atmosphere. The staff were lovely too, greeting everyone with friendly faces and warm smiles. We even ran into someone upstairs dressed as an alien from the film, which I’m guessing was a staff member helping set the mood!

Walking through the venue, I was struck by the chandeliers and grand design. As we headed upstairs and into the cinema, I was genuinely amazed by how large it was and how well the space has been preserved. The seats aren’t the plush, modern types you’ll find at newer cinemas, but that’s part of the charm and there are plenty of comfy couches in the foyers if you want to relax before the movie.

The attention to detail was incredible, they even played themed commercials and old school trailers before the movie, featuring classics like E.T. and Blade Runner. After the film, the curtain closed over the screen, adding another beautiful old world touch. The amenities are also very traditional; the upstairs powder room could use a little love, but it all fits the venue’s authentic feel. There are toilets on both levels, and with only one cinema, it’s very easy to find your way around. Parking is limited, but the theatre is a short walk from Windsor Station and close to Prahran if you’re looking for a meal before or after your session.

I absolutely love this cinema and everything it represents. It’s wonderful to see places like the Astor still celebrating classic films, from The Sound of Music to Psycho. It’s a real gem for Melbourne’s film lovers, and I’m grateful it’s still standing. I know the Astor has faced challenges staying open over the years, and I truly hope more people continue to support it. Sure, there are things that could be updated or modernised but honestly, its vintage charm is part of what makes it so special. I can’t wait to head back for more classic film nights, and I’d encourage every film buff to do the same and help keep this beautiful cinema alive."

Ashlee Jayde

"We saw a spectacular version of Romeo and Juliet. Only on this week I think with an amazing choir and Nadine Garner as the narrator. An experience not to miss!"

Penelope Lamble