Every year, Bollywood produces twice as many films as Hollywood. Indeed, India’s ever-thriving movie industry is integral to its economic and commercial growth and is, in many ways, reflective of its societal values. To capture this rich cinematic culture, German photography duo Stefanie Zoche & Sabine Haubitz documented the vibrant facades and architecture of different movie theatres around South India. On three trips to South India, the photographers documented both old still-surviving cinemas from the 30s as well as newer cinemas of the 70s era. Titled “Hybrid Modernism”, the series features the theatrical, dramatic characters of the cinema. The vibrantly colored buildings stand iconic as individual complexes distinct from its monotonous surrounding environment.

The photographers explain on their website, ‘We are particularly interested in the culturally influenced reinterpretation of modern building style apparent in the architectural style‘ the artists describe ‘which displays an unusual mixture of modernism, local architectural elements, a strong use of color and, in the case of some older cinema halls, of art deco.’

It is fascinating to observe the evolution of the physical cinema through the years. While many theatres are left in the original state, many are undergoing renovation and upgrading. Documenting such treasures are pertinent in showing the shift in cinema culture that is prevalent not only in India but also in other parts of the world. 

Visit the Haubitz+Zouche Website 

Images via designboom