The Ultimate Movie Experience

We went to the movies last night - but oh, what an understatement that is! We actually went to the latest and greatest Cineplex in Bangkok, located in a gargantuan luxury shopping complex called Siam Paragon.

We were there to see the Harry Potter movie - Sean and Amara had already seen it once in the U.S. but it would be the first time for Mei and me.

The cineplex was located on the top floor of the complex, next to a very high tech-looking bowling alley. There were 10 regular screens, 3 Ultra Screens and an IMAX theatre, plus a Starbucks among all the refreshment choices.

We went to the Ultra Screen of course. The ticket price for this VIP experience was 600 baht each (~$18) as opposed to the regular theatre price of around 140 baht ($4). We were led into the Ultra Lounge, a very hip area with a full bar and low, modern seating all in a rich red tone. With our tickets, there was a selection of complimentary soft drinks and cookies. Many of the tables were filled with various moviegoers enjoying a pre-show drink.

After hanging out for some time, ushers started leading guests one table at a time into the theatre. We were shown to our seats, given a demonstration of the seat features, and our drink orders were taken at the seat. Now these seats were leather and resembled really nice lazy boy recliners. You could recline them to an almost flat angle, and they came with pillows and a comfy blanket. If I were a little sleepy, this would have been the perfect (albeit pricey) nap location.

It was quite the movie experience - the kids are now completely spoiled!