"Give us the big picture: What’s the vibe of the place, what’s it like? Travel back to a bygone era at the retro-chic Golden Age Cinema and Bar, a glamorous, intimate cinema with a handy watering hole attached. Set in the heritage-listed, Art Deco Paramount Pictures building in Surry Hills , it was once the film company’s screening room, but has been lovingly restored. What kinds of events can we see here? Launched in 2013, Golden Age screens classic, cult, and contemporary new-release movies, with a penchant for Australian and independent films, creative feature pairings, and documentaries. The program also includes film trivia nights, DJ sessions, and music gigs by up-and-coming singer-songwriters and bands. How are the seats? In keeping with the 1940-born building, the screening room is decked out in antique cinema chairs from Zürich hailing from the same era. The plush velvet-upholstered wooden seats are spacious and comfy, with plenty of legroom. Gorgeous mint-green walls and soft lighting add to the vintage mood, with all chairs offering a great view of the curtained mid-sized screen (seats are first-come, first-served, but there’s not a bad one in the house). Some of the original projectors are still in play, but this is a state-of-the-art experience. Good for kids? There’s an adult vibe at the Golden Age, given it hosts a bar. Those under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Anything in particular that makes this place special, from the programming to a unique feature it has? The alluring adjoining bar, inspired by director David Lynch and designed from scratch to match the cinema, is open for drinks before, during, or after the film. You can also take food and drinks into the screening, with a kiosk serving craft beers, distinctive local wines, and snacks such as cocktail popcorn and choc tops from Gelato Messina. Even if you’re not seeing a movie, you’re welcome to visit the sophisticated, curvy bar, which features inviting tan banquettes, grainy wood and metal tables, wraparound curtains and atomic-style pendant lights. Enjoy tasty share plates or the famous Big Cheese Toastie. Cocktails take their cue from Hollywood—order a Team Zissou , The Keanu, or The MGM . If we’re going to be in town, what—and who—do you think this is best for? Sydney offers some good cinemas, but this intimate affair is a one-off, and is especially edgy. Attracting a creative, youthful crowd, it suits lovers of design, style, and great drinks, as well as cinephiles. The building is also a magnet for foodies, with the Paramount Coffee Project café and Poly wine bar next door, and inspiring Paramount House Hotel hosting sleepovers." - Sophie Davies
