The Cinemas of Dublin

Ireland has a long line of impressive cinemas, ranging from O'Connell Street's Savoy, to the more recently opened likes of Dundrum Movies and the Odeon in Stillorgan. However, the smaller cinemas have also proved to be just as enduring as their more mainstream counterparts.

Opened in 1972, the Screen cinema in Hawkins Street is small compared to most of the well-known cinemas, boasting far less screens, and a more secluded location. However, it has gone on to become one of Dublin's most recognisable movie houses and despite its unusual layout and choices, it has become one of the premier cinemas to showcase the best in independent Irish cinema, as well as classic and arthouse films. Thanks to this Irish appeal, the Screen has received a healthy audience of followers. Standing guard outside the cinema is the now legendary ''Mr Screen'' crafted by sculptor Vincent Browne.




Standing at the very bottom of O'Connell Street past the Savoy, the Ambassador Cinema was once one of Dublin's premier cinemas, operating from 1897 right up to 1999, when it was re-modelled as a music venue, then an exhibition hall, a purpose it still serves today. Its long history has made it Ireland's longest-running cinema, having been around since the beginnings of filmmaking.

The cinema was originally built as part of the Rotunda Hospital, and over the years became the location for many first-time film showings. Since it ceased acting as a cinema, it has played host to a number of exhibitions, including the likes of the Bodies Exhibition and more recently, the Art of the Brick.