SM CINEMA THEATER FORMATS EXPLAINED: YOUR GUIDE TO CHOOSING THE CINEMA THAT BEST SUITS YOU

The second half of 2026 is packed with blockbuster releases that deserve to be experienced on the big screen. 

From Disney's live-action "Moana" and Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" to the highly anticipated "Spider-Man: Brand New Day," among many others, moviegoers have plenty of reasons to head back to the cinema. 

But not all movie theaters offer the same experience. Whether you're after larger-than-life visuals, immersive sound, or premium comfort, there's a cinema format designed for you. Before booking your tickets for this season's biggest releases, here's a guide to finding the perfect way to watch based on your preferences.

IMAX

For moviegoers who want the biggest, boldest cinematic experience, IMAX delivers. Featuring an expansive screen, breathtaking visuals, and crystal-clear sound, IMAX puts you at the heart of every scene, making every moment feel larger than life. 

Available at: SM Aura, SM Megamall, SM Mall of Asia, SM North EDSA, SM City Clark, SM Lanang, and SM City Cebu

SCREENX

SCREENX takes immersion to the next level. Using synchronized side-wall projections, the action extends beyond the main screen and surrounds audiences across three walls, creating a cinematic experience that draws you deeper into the story.

Available at: SM Mall of Asia

DIRECTORS CLUB

For those who prefer a more exclusive movie experience, Directors Club delivers premium comfort. Sink into plush leather recliner seats while Dolby Atmos fills the auditorium with rich, immersive sound, complemented by sharp laser projection for exceptional picture quality.

Available at: Select SM Cinema branches nationwide

EVENT SCREEN

More than a movie theater, the Event Screen is a versatile venue designed for shared experiences. Whether you're hosting a private screening, a watch party, or a special celebration, the space can be customized to make every occasion memorable.

Available at: SM Aura, SM City Bataan, SM City Bicutan, SM City Cebu, SM City Tanza, SM City Tuguegarao, and SM City Urdaneta

REGULAR CINEMA

SM Cinema's Regular Cinemas provide a great movie experience featuring comfortable seating, crisp digital projection, and immersive sound, delivering quality entertainment for moviegoers.

Available at: All SM Cinema branches nationwide 

The only way to experience movies from the undisputed leader of the big screen

Whether you're looking for the spectacle of IMAX, the immersive world of SCREENX, the premium exclusivity of Directors Club, the flexibility of the Event Screen, or the dependable quality of a Regular Cinema, SM Cinema, the country's undisputed leader of the big screen, offers a format to match every moviegoer. 

SM Cinema operates more than 389 screens across over 79 branches nationwide, bringing world-class movie experiences closer to Filipinos wherever they are.

###

 

About SM Supermalls 

SM Supermalls is evolving—shaping how people live, connect, and experience life today. More than a place to shop, it is the country’s most loved mall and an everyday destination designed around the lifestyles, passions, and needs of Filipino communities, delivering new finds, fresh concepts, and meaningful experiences.

As one of Southeast Asia’s largest mall developers and operators, with 90 malls in the Philippines and 9 in China, SM Supermalls continues to evolve its spaces, experiences, and partnerships, building destinations that grow with communities and remain trusted, relevant, and loved for generations. Your Most Loved Supermall, SM.