by The cinema industry is dominated by two movie giants in South Africa; Ster Kinekor and Nu Metro. Opening in 1972, Nu Metro came into being only a few years after Ster Kinekor. Originating in 1969, Ster Kinekor was the result of 20th Century Fox selling off its theatre division to Sanlam.
We decided to put both of the companies against each other to see who comes out tops. We look at everything from the number of cinema’s, to prices, and levels of customer experience.
CLICK BELOW to view the best video streaming sites in South Africa.
The Basic Stats
Let’s start with the basics; how many cinemas and how many films each are currently showing. And, what experience can you expect from each one?
Nu Metro
- Nu Metro currently has 20 cinemas countrywide.
- You can choose from 28 different films.
- There is an option of Bollywood Movies.
- They offer 2D and 3D movies, as well as the options of Scene VIP and Scene Xtreme.
Ster Kinekor
- Ster Kinekor more than doubles the number of cinemas with 58 cinemas countrywide.
- They offer a choice of 40 films currently.
- They feature Bollywood as well as Nouveau films.
- You can choose from 2D, 3D, IMAX, and Cine Prestige.
The Movie Experience
Nu Metro
Apart from the 3D and 4D experiences, you can choose to watch your movie in two different experiences. Nu Metro offers the following:
1. Scene VIP
This cinema is a unique concept that takes watching a movie in luxury to the next level. From recliner seating to newly designed décor, this small cinema allows you to kick back in style. It enables more space in the cinema due to its exclusivity. Not only will you not be bothered by annoying movie-goers around you, but the cinema offers snacks and beverages, brought to you! While you lean back in your comfortable recliner, with all of the extra leg room, why not order off the cocktail menu? There is also a happy-hour promotion between 18:00 and 19:00, Mondays to Thursdays.
2. Scene Xtreme
This cinema is more for the tech nerds. If you prefer your movie in 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) on a giant screen, this is for you. 4K UHD is the highest resolution quality. To make it even better, the laser projector heightens the precision and quality of the film. To put it into perspective, standard movies are shown in 2K HD. So, this view is simply double the action. It also offers heightened sound technology with the Dolby Atmos system. This simply means all-around 3D sound to go with the outstanding cinema experience.
Ster Kinekor
Ster Kinekor offers the following three types of cinemas:
1. Nouveau
Cinema Nouveau is the art-cinema division of Ster-Kinekor. It specialises in screening independent, alternative and art cinema content from cultures across the globe. This includes film festivals, concerts and ‘live’ theatre, opera, art, and ballet productions. There are 26 different cinemas in Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg.
2. Cine Prestige
This cinema is similar to the Nu Metro ‘Scene VIP’ equivalent. It also provides an exclusive feel with leather reclining sofas, as well as snacks delivered to you. Seats are limited here too, so pre-booking is vital.
3. IMAX
Choose from the 2D, or larger than life 3D, experience at one of the seven cinemas around the country. With ceiling to floor and wall to wall screens, you will be immersed in the show. With heightened projection and sound, this is an experience not to miss.
The Cost
Nu Metro
- Standard Tickets – R70
- Scene VIP – R120.
- 3D – R90
Ster Kinekor
- Standard 2D Tickets – R71
- Seniors – R49.50
- Vitality – R40
- Vitality Kids – Free
- Edgars Club 2D – R41
- 3D – R91
- Cinema Prestige – R130
- IMAX – R120
The Award Programmes And Discounts
Nu Metro
Nu Metro offers discounts to Clicks Loyalty Club Card Holders, as well as Momentum Multiply clients. You can get discounts from R26 all the way through to R71 with Momentum. Clicks customers can enjoy up to 15% off.
Ster Kinekor
Ster Kinekor offers reduced rates to Discovery Vitality clients, as well as Edgars Club customers.
Try Something New!
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Why don’t you try out the Labia Theatre in the middle of Cape Town for a Nouveau experience with a difference? Hosted in an exquisite old- school theatre, you can treat yourself to an art film, or catch the film on the big screen. You can also try out the Open Air Theatres hosted by the Galileo group. These take place every day of the week in various venues around Cape Town.
