Bangkok: Opportunities like this don't come often! Experience the atmosphere of Nang Leong Cinema with a free screening of Thai films! The Thai Film Archive (Public Organization) and the Thai Film Foundation invite film enthusiasts to experience the charm of Nang Leong Cinema, also known as "Sala Chalermthani," a historic wooden cinema over a century old. This July 2026, audiences can discover legendary Thai films from the 1960s to the 2000s, with a full screening of five films over five days, making it a perfect cultural outing for the long weekend at the end of July.
According to Thai News Agency, the lineup kicks off on Tuesday, July 28th, with "Floating House" (2504 / 117 minutes), an esteemed Thai epic that entwines tragic love and friendship. Directed by Aswin Film, it features renowned Hong Kong stars alongside Thai actors. The screening will be preceded by a newsreel showcasing His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn's visit to the film exhibition of "Ruen Pae" in 1961.
On Wednesday, July 29th, "Tone" (2513 / 137 minutes) will be featured. This film tells the tale of a temple boy who ventures to the capital city for education and finds love. It marks the directorial debut of Piek Poster, who introduced a "new wave" in the industry with his innovative storytelling, filming techniques, and a shift in actors' roles.
Thursday, July 30th, brings "Full Moon" (2521 / 120 minutes) to the screen. This rare film, recently digitized from its original archive, stars Nipaporn Nongnuch, the rising star of the Thai Film Archive's Walk of Fame. Directed by Prince Thitiphan Yugala, it's a remake of the lost 1938 original by "His Royal Highness Prince Yai," presenting the journey of a young writer who nurtures a girl from the South.
Audiences can enjoy "The Whole World Belongs to You" (1995 / 110 minutes) on Friday, July 31st. This iconic 90s teen film became a nationwide sensation, celebrated for its actors and theme song, narrating the tale of two brothers who fall for the same girl and become entangled with a gang of thugs.
The series concludes on Saturday, August 1st, with "Gangsters Rule the City" (1997 / 105 minutes), a pivotal film in the Thai film industry. It details the exploits of Daeng Baile, Pu Raberdkhuad, Dam Esso, Laem Sing, and Piak Wisutthiksat, a notorious gang of teenage criminals pursued by both the police and rival gangs.
Screenings begin at 4:00 PM with free admission, and tickets will be available from 3:00 PM. For those interested in visiting and photographing Thailand's oldest cinema, entry is permitted from 2:00 PM onwards.
There are specific guidelines for participants: only 250 seats are available, and the Film Archive will close registration once capacity is reached. Attendees are advised to bring a fan or portable fan to handle the heat as there is no air conditioning inside the venue. Additionally, no parking is available, so public transportation is recommended.