Words that could adequately describe Newport Theatre: Ghetto, rundown, cheap, limited, and small. These words might be interpreted negatively, but know this: This was, at one point, my go-to theatre in all of Kowloon. Say what you will about HK's largest working class neighborhood, but this was where I could count on catching a flick without the guilt of paying more.
On a surface level, Newport Theatre doesn't have much going for it. The place is tiny, with only two screens and rotating movies that are mainly western and local HK ones every week. From an interior perspective, it needs a gut renovation -- peeling wallpaper, raggedy seats, and subpar facilities. Concessions are also disappointing; much like the theatre's movie variety, it is limited. The fact it's situated in the heart of Mongkok would mean it's absurdly crowded on occasion, which it can be. Go during the school / work hours and the crowd is drastically less of an issue.
To get a ticket is relatively easy, just head directly to the window in the front of the theatre where an agent (who likely will not be able to speak great English, so be forewarned) will help you choose assigned seating and available times for the movie showing that evening. Contrary to the look of it, they do accept credit cards (though cash is always recommended).
The theatre itself is also small, but not enough to deter me. Screens are not fit for digital projection or IMAX worthy stuff, but it gets the job done. The same bodes for the sound, which is equally important as the picture quality. When the ticket prices range from $50-80 throughout the day, it's certainly not a terrible way to pass the time at all. read more