Cineworld Closure: What Teesside Residents Think

Cineworld has been a loved spot for local moviegoers for years, but it’s now closed its doors leaving Teesside residents with some bittersweet memories.

Now the old Cineworld building is currently being renovated, and will be replaced by a new Odeon cinema, an end of an era for those who cherished Cineworld.

Long time local resident, Thomas Sharp, shared his memories of the Cineworld.

Thomas said: "I used to love going to Cineworld when I was younger with family. It was our go to cinema for years.

"But as the other cinemas in the area lowered their prices, added free parking, and added comfier recliner seats, I decided to watch films elsewhere."

With other cinemas introducing competitive offerings, which include more affordable ticket prices, free parking and better seating, Thomas' comments reflect the change of customer preferences, and how Cineworld became less appealing.

However, being a local resident, and a previous Teesside University student. Thomas has seen the growth of talent at Teesside University and emphasised the need for a local cinema.

He said: "With the emerging talent at Teesside University, having a nearby cinema is crucial for the industry, and for artists to show their work.”

Convenience of a Local Cinema

For Teesside resident Pauline Morgan, Cineworld was a convenient option for family outings.

She said: "We always enjoyed going to Cineworld in Middlesbrough. It was close and convenient for us.

“A bit of a trek to the Showcase cinema in Stockton, although it had better seating. And it also worked out more expensive for a family treat.”

The convenience of having a local cinema has played a role in making it a go-to choice for families, and its closure would have left a gap for some, if it wasn’t for the Odeon set to open up in its place.

Cineworld had 'the best food and cheap tickets'

Carl Downie, another local resident, reflected on his experience with Cineworld, and how it's cheap tickets made an impact on him attending.

He said: "I loved Cineworld, they had the best food, and the cheap tickets over the last few years have been great.

“I've seen The Matrix films, The Lord of the Rings films, and most of the Marvel films there. It will be sorely missed."

Carl's feelings of nostalgia about cheap ticket prices, and iconic films highlight what will be missed with the closure of Cineworld.

But bidding farewell to Cineworld, it seems Teesside residents can look forward to seeing the latest films, larger screens, upgraded seating and enhanced sound at the new Odeon cinema.

But the question is, will Odeon live up to Cineworld's reputation, and will it be better...