This is again one of my favorite places not only in Helsinki but on Earth! I love films and absolutely adore cinemas, especially old ones. Like probably everywhere in the world, most of the old cinemas of Helsinki have disappeared, but there are still a few being used. And actually there seems to be even a bit of a renaissance of cinemas going on and new ones show up every once in a while!
Situated in Kamppi, in the center of Helsinki, for a long time cinema Orion used to host screenings by KAVI, the Finnish National Audiovisual Institute. But after the new main library Oodi was finished, KAVI took its screening there - and film enthusiasts were naturally shocked! What would happen to Orion?! Films have been screened in the theatre since the 1920s, and the art déco architecture and interior are beautiful. But, luckily, Orion continues as an independent cinema, showing new art films as well as old classics. What a relief!
My favorite spot to watch films is on the balcony - but everyone has their own preference. I recommend Orion to every film enthusiast in Helsinki! The ticket office opens 45 minutes before the first screening and closes at last screening.
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