ROYAL RETURN: Sutton Coldfield’s Art Deco Cinema is Back in Style!

After a £2 million refurbishment, the iconic 1936 building has been transformed into a glamorous Art Deco gem, complete with chandeliers, plush new seats, and even a bar stocked with Prosecco and posh popcorn.

We caught up with Des Christie, the ever-charismatic General Manager of The Royal, who gave us a grand tour (and a good few laughs) as he shared the exciting news.

“Welcome to the Royal Cinema, formerly Empire Sutton Coldfield,” Des beamed. “It’s comfy, it’s beautiful, and it feels like home again.”

A CINEMATIC COMEBACK

As we stepped into the lovingly restored venue, Des couldn’t help but put his feet up—literally

“Stretch out, relax, put your feet up,” he said. “And no, not on my lap!”

The Royal isn’t just about comfort—it’s about reviving the magic of moviegoing. With a slate of blockbusters ready to light up the big screen, 2025 is shaping up to be a bumper year. From Karate Kid Legends (yes, Jackie Chan is back!) to Jurassic World Rebirth, and a return of the Man of Steel in a retro-style Superman film, the lineup is stacked.

“We’ve got Fantastic Four coming too,” Des teased.

AFFORDABLE LUXURY FOR ALL

More than just a pretty face, The Royal is putting other cinemas on notice by offering luxury for less. Thanks to the vision of independent chain PDJ Cinemas, all tickets are priced below £10, making it the best value cinema in Birmingham.

“We’re talking affordable luxury,” Des explained. “Like Everyman, but without the Everyman price tag.”

And if the prospect of reclining seats and surround sound isn’t enough to entice you, perhaps a chilled glass of fizz will.

“We’ve got a bar, Prosecco in the fridge (well, there was), and even posh popcorn. It’s all about escapism—just come down, chill out, and enjoy.”

BLOCKBUSTERS & BUZZ

Recent hits like Bridget Jones brought crowds right to the doors, and the town is loving the Royal’s revival. Current showings include Thunderbolts and Penguin Lessons, with Lilo & Stitch set to charm audiences later this May.

Des puts it best: “The town is buzzing. Sutton Coldfield has its cinema back, and we’re just getting started.”

📍 You’ll find The Royal Cinema in the heart of Sutton Coldfield, on the corner where the old Empire once stood.

🎟️ Tickets under £10 | Luxury Experience | Now Showing: Magic on the Big Screen

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