When was the last time you watched a movie on the big screen? Chances are, when you did, it was not in Kigali or even Rwanda for that matter. In neighbouring countries like Uganda and Kenya, this is a common entertainment option. There are various cinema halls, packed with ardent movie goers throughout the week and especially on weekends. Rwandans are about to tap into the action once a Cinema hall is commissioned for business; scheduled for later this month to coincide with the Champions League finals. Cine Star Cinema is one of those new and sophisticated cinema halls in Kigali city. The one million US dollar cinema has two sections: the VIP and the ordinary, a giant screen, comfortable seats and modern surround sound systems. Refreshments like soda and popcorns will be readily available to ‘accompany’ the movie watching. “Rwandans love the cinema, but I’m also targeting the tourists who come in the country,” said Apollo Gafaranga, the owner of Cine Star Cinema, located in Nyamirambo. Peterson Hugh, an American teenager on vacation, comments that during his two week visit in the country, he has wondered why Rwanda is not as big a fan of cinemas as other parts of the continent. “So, imagine my level of excitement when Cine Star starts operating,” “I’ll be going there every evening for movies.” The Cine Star cinema is aims at creating a destination that gives families, friends and tourists a new reason to come together in an entertaining activity, other than the conventional eating and drinking that usually characterise social functions here. In so doing, the Cinema will bring people together. Speaking about his forthcoming project, Gafaranga, also an investor in Real Estates said that he is planning to build a shopping mall in Nyamirambo. “Going to a cinema to watch a good movie will add a little spice to our monotonous lives,” says ‘Kigalian’ Anita Kalisa. Movies have become a culture for Rwandans. Watching movies is like watching soccer. Sometimes movies are made to bring about awareness and togetherness among the people in society. So soon, other than fighting over the remote at home with family or cramming in front of a laptop, the big screen will offer the perfect choice for ultimate movie enjoyment. Email: lindaonly2005@yahoo.com
