Building on the past

Standing in front of the century-old building, Li Jianjun has a hard time relating today's reality with what he saw 14 years ago.

The "1904" carved on the face of the circular door records its age and the writing on the storefront signboard — "Restaurant and Museum" — indicates its modern functions.

"It is one of the best-preserved cinemas in China and has great historic, artistic, social and cultural significance," says Li, who oversaw the restoration.

By the late 1990s, the building was in danger of collapse. The days of packed audiences of film lovers were long gone.

Now, renovated, it has a new life, a sequel, if you like, as a popular cultural landmark that serves as a film museum and a restaurant.

Li, 45, a film enthusiast who works in the catering industry, decided to help restore the historic building with local government's support in 2008.