FILM fans in Felixstowe will be able to enjoy 3D movies for the first time as part of a £100,000 investment in the resort’s cinema.

East Anglian Daily Times: Neal Sutton in the projection room at The Palace Cinema, Felixstowe, which is getting a makeover so it can show 3D digital films.Neal Sutton in the projection room at The Palace Cinema, Felixstowe, which is getting a makeover so it can show 3D digital films. (Image: Archant)

Screen one at the Palace cinema and bingo complex is being converted to 3D and both screens are being fitted with new Barco second generation digital projectors and sound systems.

The work is currently taking place including the alteration of the projection port position for screen one, and also reinforcing the insulation in the dividing wall between the screens and roof, as well as improving the box office size and facilities.

The project follows a £200,000 makeover for the cinema in Crescent Road three years ago.

Neal Sutton, from the cinema, said the work was a huge investment for the town and would hopefully further boost numbers attending films, as did the makeover, which increased customer figures significantly.

He said: “Cinemas have to go digital or die – they have no choice in the matter because 35mm film is going.

“I am thrilled that the owner Patrick Duffy has bitten the bullet and spent the money here in Felixstowe. It’s a big investment and we hope we get as good a response from the public as we did with the refurbishment.”

Mr Sutton said films would be shown in 3D Dolby if they really merited it, while the digital conversion would make the picture sharper and brighter, better than an HD TV, with clearer sound for all films.

The first 3D film will be Iron Man 3 with a special screening on April 25 at 7.30pm to start its run.

Prices will go up at the cinema following the conversion but a new free members’ loyalty card is being launched which will give holders a discount on every visit, free tickets on their birthday, and regular ticket offers and deals via text.