Ritz Cinemas — Local services in Sydney

I have been going to the Ritz Randwick for over 20 years. It has, was, unequivocally my families favorite cinema until very recently.

Some of the perks of the Randwick Ritz is location, with it being situated in the heart of the Spot near a bus stop. It still has fantastic popcorn. Since the new ownership has taken over I am happy to see more foreign films being shown, especially the creation of the new European Film Festival which I am thrilled exists. Though Sydney has innumerable film festivals, the choice from Europe is steeply limited and it is super nice to see more variety especially from Southern, Central and Eastern Europe. I hope to see the European Film Festival expand its range over the years to come. I also like the new directors retrospectives such as the Hitchcock and Almodovar ones.

But new cycles also come with negatives. The new renovations are frankly, really awful. And it's not just me, it's everyone I know who has visited since from all over the city. Though it's nice to see the original tiles, the new color scheme with dark blues is frankly awful. The women's bathroom upstairs is no more, and the new bathrooms are not only deeply dirty, they are really ugly with a modern dark color scheme with all the beautiful art deco mirrors now gone. My first thought was "Are they trying to be Newtown?" Lo and behold, even the new (and bad) menu has a Newtown-er deal (dude, why?). I am a Sydneysider, I know Newtown intimately from the 1990s onwards. But Newtown is kinda a homogenous version of alternative (the place where all the "fringe" folks look, talk, dress, pierce their bodies and cut their hair the exact same 'alternative' way) so it's not really that alternative at all, unlike back in the day. The Ritz was one of the last original art deco cinemas in Sydney. If they were smart, they should have gone down the art deco path for their renovations, to really celebrate and capture the cinema while taking it in the future. Now, I kinda feel it deserves to have the title of being one of the last art-deco cinemas stripped from its reputation because it's just another ugly modern venue with no soul. Not to mention, customer service is horrific now. Like, really bad. I know a young man who went for the interviews but was rejected as they chose to approach future employees by conducting team interviews. What that approach did is ensure the stereotypically rude, bully Aussies that thrive in such environments got the jobs, and all the cool, awkward at first but awesome after a minute film nerds who may have not stood out in this interview setting which the customers would have come to love got sidelined. So now the Ritz is littered with frankly, that "mean high school" vibe. I know the few times I've visited the customer service has been awful and rude. Also, the Cult Classics programs let's be frank is not very good. The Lord of the Rings trilogy may be a popular, but it is not a cult series but very popular blockbusters. Unlike the Hayden Orpheum who really does play cult classics, programming at the Ritz for cult cinema is deeply limited. Especially for those of us who are serious fans/collectors of cult film. Also, the chairs now have these small wooden placers instead of cups and they make it hard to relax. I wish there were some seating options for disabled patrons such as reclining seats alas, that would cost more than most cinemas would want to invest outside of the luxury seating like Events Broadway. And like so many businesses today, whomever is running the social media websites is not community orientated, probably because they do not live here so don't care?

Anyway, the only constant is change so maybe another changing of guard will happen at the Ritz in the future and it will be funky, fun and gorgeous again. But for now, most of the new changes have not been for the better. I really miss the sandwiches and snacks, they were great when you used to go and watch 3 films back to back but like everything, is long gone now. Despite being local, we visit the Hadyn Orpheum...

It breaks my heart to have to give The Ritz anything less than 5 stars but the ticket and candy bar price increases, as well as decrease in quality since the new owners took over in 2019 have been terribly sad to see.

I have been a regular here since 1999 and will be there next week for the 85th Anniversary. That said, prior to the 2019 sale you could depend on the Ritz for cheap tickets, fair candy bar prices and the best popcorn taste in the world (seriously). Now, the popcorn from the 'new' popcorn machine is average-below average, the home-made choc tops are GONE and the prices....the PRICES...!

Before 2019 - pre-new owners: Adult Ticket Price - $9 Cheap Tuesdays - $6 Large Popcorn & drink- $12 Couples Combo (Large Popcorn + 2 large drinks) - $16

Current (November 2022) - post-new owners: Adult Ticket Price - $15 Cheap Tuesdays - $8 Large Popcorn & drink - $20 Couples Combo - $25

I know there's been inflation, you have to pay staff and we're in the covid era, but these price increases, especially re the candy bar (which again, has far INFERIOR popcorn to pre 2019 and no more home-made choc tops) are excessive (except for Cheap Tuesday which is still great).

I also miss pre 2019 when the Manager was always there and the same staff seemed to always be there. However I appreciate the economic climate is different now....still would be good to have a Manager/Customer Care point of contact as the face for the place.

As for the new design of the refurbishment...it feels a bit 1980s Miami Vice to me and lacks a bit of its past charm but I appreciate that this is purely subjective and as long as the cinemas themselves remain the same, that's all that matters.

Speaking of which to end on a high note: I will still always love and support The Ritz. It is a heritage listed art Deco cinema steeped in history with a main theatre that brings you back to grander times. I see the majority of films that come to cinema here, both with friends and occasionally by myself as I want to support this place as well as independent/non Hoyts/Event cinemas as much as possible.

Cheers to 85...

Ritz Cinemas is a true gem for movie lovers, offering a delightful and nostalgic cinema experience. The moment you walk through the doors, you're transported into a world of classic charm, with its art deco design and welcoming atmosphere. It's a refreshing change from the sterile, modern cinemas, and there's something special about the way the vintage decor adds to the overall movie experience.

The selection of films at Ritz Cinemas is excellent, catering to a wide range of tastes. Whether you're into the latest blockbuster, an indie film, or a classic, you'll find something to enjoy. They often screen unique and hard-to-find films, making it a fantastic spot for cinephiles looking to see something different from the mainstream. The programming is diverse, and they host regular events, including special screenings, film festivals, and even retro movie nights.

The cinema itself is top-notch, with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics. The screens are large and well-maintained, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience. The staff are friendly and professional, always ready to assist with any questions or requests. The whole experience feels more personalized, with a level of care that you don't often find in larger chain cinemas.

Ritz Cinemas also offers a range of snacks and beverages, including the usual popcorn and candy, as well as some more gourmet options like artisanal chocolate and coffee. The prices are reasonable, especially considering the quality of the experience. Plus, the venue has a cozy bar area where you can relax before the movie starts, adding a nice touch for those who want to make a night of it.

Overall, Ritz Cinemas stands out for its combination of classic charm, exceptional service, and a great variety of films. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a movie in a more intimate and atmospheric setting. Whether you're a local or just visiting, it's worth the trip for a unique cinema experience that you won’t get anywhere else. Without a doubt, Ritz Cinemas earns a well-deserved 5-star rating and is my go-to spot for a...