SHOPPING malls have become popular because they offer many entertainment options. Phnom Penh’s Sorya Centre, for example, is a well-known hub for shopping, entertainment and eating.

This week, I’ll introduce you to a new, ultra-modern entertainment place, The Cineplex, which officially opened in early August.

The Cineplex is a cinema operated by the Sabay company. Most of the films screened there are well-known foreign productions, and they are shown in either 2D or 3D. 3D is a recent technology that requires audiences to wear  special glasses to make films more vivid and spectacular.

The Cineplex is on the fifth floor of the Sorya Centre, whose address should be well known to our readers. It welcomes patrons from 9:50am and films are screened five times a day – so it’s easy to choose a session that suits you.

I was on vacation when my friend called me and another person, asking us if we wanted to watch a film at The Cineplex.

Even before we got inside, I was intrigued by the stylish décor of the cinema, and my friends and I hurried to buy our tickets.

After watching some highlights on a big TV screen outside the cinema, we decided to see Captain America, which is screened in 3D.? The price for 3D movies is $6 and for 2D, $4 – a bit expensive for students like us. But the service  is good;  the ticket-sellers, snack-sellers and other staff are friendly and always greet patrons with a smile.

The Cineplex also has a great promotion: for an extra $1, you get a box of popcorn and a container of Coke.

The Cineplex is strikingly decorated in black and red, and we felt we were in an international-standard cinema.

As I looked around, the big Cineplex logo, the  light fittings and the red sofas caught my eye. I noticed that a lot of other people were checking them out too.

But let’s talk about the hall. As we opened the door, I immediately felt relaxed and cool, thanks to the six air-conditioners, a comfortable atmosphere and pleasant background music.

Moreover, the 3D glasses and surround sound make audiences feel totally immersed in the movie. The only criticism came from one of my friends, who is a bit plump and said the seat was a bit small.

After watching Captain America, I thought  the admission price wasn’t really too high, given the quality of the film, the excellent service and the pleasant surroundings.

After spending $6 to watch a 3D film at the Cineplex, you’ll feel happy and forget all your troubles. It’s an amazing entertainment experience for someone who is stressed out from study and work; just spent a little time at Cineplex to relax and lift your spirits.