Film Association of Malawi (Fama) said on Tuesday that it wants to bring back the good old days when people used to grace cinemas to watch movies.
The film association has partnered with Amaryllis Hotel in Blantyre to start holding movie nights every Thursday at Splash Rooftop Restaurant.
“We are thankful to Amaryllis Hotel for initiating movie nights. This platform will give local filmmakers a chance to showcase their films and also open up to movie lovers to enjoy both local and foreign movies,” Fama Vice President Ashukile Mwakisulu said.
He said movie nights would also connect local filmmakers to players who can support the film industry which, he indicated, is making positive strides.
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“We are doing well as far as making movies is concerned. Local filmmakers are producing mature films, telling our own stories and, so, movie nights will give people a chance to watch these movies. It is high time we grew the cinema culture, which died out,” Mwakisulu, who is also a filmmaker and actor, said.
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He said, for now, it is free entry and that people will have an experience of enjoying popcorn while watching movies.
“We want to invite movie lovers to patronise these movie nights. We are planning to talk to different producers so they can also benefit, in terms of revenue,” Mwakisulu said.
Amaryllis Hotel General Manager Ramy Waheed said they were happy with the turnout last week Thursday.
“Amaryllis Hotel will continue giving people exciting outings. We are a hub that loves the arts and bringing movie nights is one of the areas we thought we should exploit,” Waheed said.
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He said apart from local movies, people will be treated to Hollywood and Bollywood movies.
“People should prepare to be captivated by the compelling storylines, talented casts and breathtaking sceneries that beautifully potray the essence of Malawi,” Waheed said.
Tomorrow, movie nights will host Mwakisulu’s film All We Have is Us.
“Let us come together to celebrate our rich culture and heritage through the magic of cinema,” Waheed said.
The film has already had screenings in the country as well as United States of America and the United Kingdom.
All We Have is Us is based on the life and experiences of Elsie, played by Mwai Simbota, in terms of her background, upbringing and everything else focusing on love and relationships.
The movie is a dedication to Juliet Royo Chikweba, who died in 2021 and is also part of the cast.
Apart from Royo Chikweba, other members of the cast include Simunye Nyamali, Hope Chisanu, Blessings Suya and Yankho Seunda.
