Mid summer nights

As the capital seems to quiet down, there’s perhaps no more traditional pursuit in Nicosia than watching an al fresco film. ZOE CHRISTODOULIDES looks at the options available

Summer nights in the capital can be a tricky business. As temperatures rise in July and August, humidity reaches a peak when the sun goes down, as the evenings become undeniably sticky and rather unbearable. But those in search of a little relief are in for a treat as plenty of outdoor movies give crowds the chance to sit back and relax as onscreen action transports you to faraway places.

Avid cinema lovers are more than likely to already be familiar with the Summer Movie Marathon that has kicked off in Pallouriotissa. The event has lured in many crowds in the past, taking place annually over the last 13 years in a combined effort between the Ministry of Education and Culture and Theatro Ena.

Aiming to upgrade the social and cultural life of the city, what many people may not know is that the charming old Constantia Cinema is actually one of the oldest cinemas in Nicosia, dating back to the middle of last century. Luring in crowds to enjoy films under the moonlit sky in a nostalgic atmosphere, this year will be about all-time classics coupled with contemporary films. Be it drama, politics, comedy or social issues it’s all there in the diverse programme.

Organisers emphasise that they were extremely keen on taking quality into account this year, combining the cinematographic education of the viewers with a good dose of pleasure. Highlights include some great famous classics like Vertigo and Singing in the Rain. As for the newer releases you’ll get to enjoy Wasted Youth; an improvised and raw film about a 16-year-old skate kid in Athens topped off by other unusual releases like No One Knows about Persian Cats – a lively Ukranian film about underground bands.

And that’s not to forget the younger crowd, with a few films solely dedicated to the kids. It’s also worth keeping in mind that children under the age of ten get in for free. Screenings will go on all the way through until September 14, scheduled to take place every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Looks like ARTos Cultural Centre in Nicosia had the same bright idea when it comes to giving local crowds enjoyment under a starry sky. The lovely centre located in a beautiful old part of Ayios Omoloyites has introduced a series of Mid Summer Nights taking place every Thursday evening which include the screening of 3D movies and animation in the courtyard of the venue.

“In the past couple of years this has been a really popular summer event,” says Fivos Iasides, Managing Director of the ARTos Foundation. “What’s really great is that DJ music follows every screening where crowds have something to drink and a chat with each other. It’s a magical space and it really adds something to our summer nights in the capital.”

Coming up this Thursday evening is an Israeli film named The Worst Company in the World where love and humour are plentiful but success is scarce in a small Tel Aviv insurance agency where nothing runs as it should. The following Thursday is then dedicated to a screening of selected Dutch shorts. “The idea of this event is also that of attracting younger people into our cultural space and not just a specific niche crowd,” points out Fivos.

As for outdoor cinema that’s just dedicated to kids, you might want to take them down to the Lakatamia Amphitheatre where a whole host of screenings are to take place, kicking off at the end of July. Starting off with the screening of Rio on July 27, a couple more screenings will follow in August and September ending with Asterix and the Vikings on September 21. Entrance to the event is free of charge and kids are bound to love the change of atmosphere.

 

Constantia Summer Movie Marathon

With screenings on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Constantia Outdoor Cinema, Palouriotissa. €4. Free entrance for children under the age of 10. Tel: 22-439838/ 22-348203

 

ARTos Mid Summer Nights

With movies and music on the next two Thursday nights. €5. Tel: 22-445455 or visit www.artosfoundation.org

 

Lakatamia Kids Summer Cinema

With screenings throughout July, August and September. Lakatamia Amphitheatre, Nicosia. 8.30pm. Free. Tel: 22-364033. www.lakatamia.org.cy

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