The curtain is set to rise once more at Singapore’s seminal independent cinema location at Golden Mile Tower. After the heartfelt closure of The Projector last August, the location famous for nurturing the city-state’s alternative film scene is slated for a comeback under new management, led by former members of the original team. The new venture, called Filmhouse, plans a soft launch in late January or early February, promising to uphold the venue’s decade-long legacy while introducing fresh technical upgrades and programming.
The revival represents a significant plot twist for local cinephiles who mourned the loss of the beloved indie hub. Filmhouse is spearheaded by Sharon Tan, formerly the general manager of The Projector, alongside other core team members dedicated to sustaining a cultural space for non-mainstream films. Speaking about the name choice, Tan emphasizes the goal of creating “a home for films and film lovers,” signaling a commitment to community and curated content over commercial interests.
Technical and Aesthetic Preservation
While undergoing a necessary technical refresh, Filmhouse intends to preserve the distinct atmosphere and structural integrity familiar to long-time patrons. The cinema rooms themselves will retain their distinctive nomenclature—the Green Room, Redrum, and the Blue Room—a deliberate nod to the building’s unique history that will resonate with returning audiences.
The most notable technical upgrade is the Green Room, which is receiving a substantial 4K projection overhaul to enhance the viewer experience. The Redrum and Blue Room will maintain their existing 2K setups, ensuring a diverse range of viewing experiences across the venue’s auditoriums.
Aesthetic changes are being handled with careful consideration for the space’s visual identity. Though a fresh coat of paint and modernization efforts are underway, the team plans to preserve selected wall murals. These artistic relics, which form the cinema’s recognisable visual DNA, assure patrons that the spirit of the venue remains intact.
Inaugural Programming Highlights
Filmhouse is setting an ambitious standard for its soft launch with a carefully planned lineup of internationally acclaimed cinema. The inaugural slate includes Sentimental Value, a Norwegian-language feature that secured the Grand Prix at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, establishing the venue’s commitment to showcasing award-winning world cinema.
Also confirmed for the initial programming is Hamnet, the highly anticipated period drama directed by Chloé Zhao. Starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, the film recently garnered significant praise, including the Best Motion Picture (Drama) win at the 2026 Golden Globes. This curated selection immediately positions Filmhouse as a destination for high-quality, thought-provoking independent films.
The return of an independent cinema to Golden Mile Tower is more than just a business reopening; it signals the resilience of Singapore’s independent arts scene. By combining experienced leadership with modern technology and a dedication to diverse programming, Filmhouse is poised to continue the tradition of fostering a cultural sanctuary for filmmakers and film lovers alike. The soft opening next month is highly anticipated, offering a needed resurgence for local cinematic culture.