Original language movies in English are traditionally very popular in Düsseldorf and a good selection are screened in several movie theatres.
Films available to expats are screened mostly in original with subtitles, known as OmU or Original mit Untertitel and without, portrayed as OV or Original Version in a number of movie theatres.
CineStar screens mainstream releases and blockbusters in original at their lively multiplex cinema. UFA Palast also show a good number of OV movies too. UCI Kinowelt generally shows one or two movies a week.
Filmkunstkinos show an excitingly wide variety of mainly art house films in original with subtitles across their various cosy cinemas. The Blackbox located in the Film Museum shows numerous older movies, while the Filmwerkstatt has been adored for showing classics.
Many films produced in English are screened for several days and even a few weeks. Others unfortunately appear for just a day or two.
Enjoy watching original versions with subtitles in French, Spanish, Russian, Polish and other languages such as Hindi, Urdu, Farsi, Arabic. Keep your eye open for occasional specials at the Film Museum too.
Weekly updates of movie listings with times and theatres in the table. Cinema details, contact information and links in the posts below.
Having worked together with Filmkunstkinos and with support from Henkel to increase OmU availability in Düsseldorf years ago, this is dear to my heart. However, due to focus on strategic areas of business, weekly listings published on Amazing Capitals have now ceased. Please refer to the cinemas directly using links in the individual posts below.
The Filmkunstkinos in Düsseldorf show mostly art house films in original English with German subtitles in several cosy and more traditional movie theatres, which are very diverse.
The cinemas are movie theatre Atelier with larger screen, quirky Bambi with two screens, traditional and quaint single screen Cinema, neighbourhood multiscreen Metropol, highly unique Souterrain below bistro Muggel and open air Vier Linden.
CineStar Dusseldorf is a relaxed multiplex showing mostly original version, OV, English language blockbuster movies situated in the borough of Oberkassel on the left bank of the Rhine. The complex is easy to reach by tram from the city centre or car from any direction.
The movie theatre contains nine cinemas, the largest of which offers a 600 seats and a screen over 8m by 18m in size. The experience can include traditional popcorn and soft drinks.
UFA Palast is located next to the central railway station in Düsseldorf. The complex is a large multiplex showing mostly original version, OV, English language blockbuster movies.
The movie theatre is easy to reach by subway from almost anywhere via the city centre. With thirteen cinemas ranging in size from over 100 to over 500 seats, Dolby Atmos is also available, the most intense sound experience to date. Popcorn and soft drinks too.
UCI Kinowelt is situated amongst the commercial and office area of the former harbour in Dusseldorf. The multiplex screens mostly blockbuster movies and fortunately presents expats with another opportunity to view films in the original English language version over the weekends. Some are accompanied by subtitles, OmU, others are not, OV.
The movie theatre contains several screens of various sizes and offers typical multiplex goodies such as popcorn and soft drinks.
The Filmmuseum is located in Düsseldorf’s old town, Altstadt. Its permanent exhibition reveals insights to the exciting world of movies from its earliest beginnings to present the day. The museum hosts the state’s enormous collection of more than 6,000 film
Since the museum is also home to the Black Box, expats can enjoy old movies screened in the original English and other languages.
The Filmwerkstatt shows a unique selection of classic and vintage original language movies in original version, OV, or original with subtitles, OmU. Originally founded as long ago as 1976, the organisation brings together film-makers, enthusiasts and students.
The non-profit is supported by the state of NRW, the cultural department of Düsseldorf and the renowned and globally active Filmstiftung NRW.
Staying in touch and getting together with others living in a similar situation can be important. Expat groups in social media are highly valuable sources for connecting. Socialising in Düsseldorf can include events, international clubs or heading for a popular spot to meet international residents.
