Wanna watch movies in Taipei but don’t feel like going to a big theatre? Head for the SPOT in Taipei!
Set up and managed by world-famous Taiwanese director Hou Hsiao-Hsien, the Taipei SPOT Film House is where many of Taipei’s film buffs go to see a wider range of independent and foreign films than what the blockbuster movie houses pump out.
SPOT used to be the residence of the US Ambassador to Taiwan, but when the Americans cut off official diplomatic ties with the island, the building remained, though empty. The films run in a small, intimate theater that uses a film grain projector, giving the films that old-school feel. Many of the films run are Taiwanese or Chinese.
There are usually only about three or four films running at any given time, so be sure to check their website with descriptions and so on. Also, you’ll want to check whether or not the film has subtitles. If the film happens to be in a language you understand, great. Otherwise, the films are often presented with both English and Chinese subtitles, but you’ll want to ask first.
Another great aspect of the SPOT Film House is that attached to it is a great cafe and restaurant. If you are a film lover, you’ll love to snag a fresh coffee and sip on it throughout your watching.
Bottom line: Scope out the films available, select a time, make it a movie date with a cafe conveniently next door for you to discuss the abstract meaning of the independent film you’ve just seen.
Info about SPOT Taipei Film House
Where is SPOT Taipei Film House?
Address: No. 18, Sec. 2, Zhongshan N. Road
MRT Zhongshan Station
How to say it: tai bei zhi jia
How much: NT$220 per movie ticket
When to go: 11:30am-12am
Visit SPOT Film House’s website to see what films are currently playing.
Return from SPOT Taipei Film Houseto Taipei Travel Information