As part of the Ajyal Film Festival 2024, Doha Film Institute (DFI) is bringing back its beloved ‘Cinema Under the Stars’ and ‘Cinema By The Sea’ open-air screenings as the cooler weather sets in.
From 21 to 23 November, the Museum of Islamic Art Park and West Bay Beach will transform into picturesque outdoor cinemas, each hosting three free screenings perfect for film lovers and families.
This much-anticipated tradition celebrates the end of Doha’s intense summer with a magical movie experience under the night sky, framed by the city’s stunning skyline. Entry is free on a first-come, first-served basis, so gather your family, grab your blankets, and arrive early to secure your spot.
‘Cinema Under the Stars’ and ‘Cinema By The Sea’ offers a unique chance to enjoy films in a relaxed, cultural setting.
‘Cinema Under The Stars’
The Borrowers
The tiny, resourceful Clock family secretly lives within the walls of the Lender household, “borrowing” small items to survive. Their hidden life is disrupted when corrupt lawyer Ocious P. Potter seizes control of the house, intending to demolish it for profit. Teaming up with the Lenders, the Clocks must devise a clever plan to thwart Potter, reclaim the home, and preserve their secret world in this heartwarming tale of resilience and teamwork.
Dates And Timings
- Thursday 21 November, 7:30 pm
- Location: MIA Park
- Fee: Free
Babar The Movie
Young elephant prince Babar faces a great challenge when his peaceful kingdom, Celesteville, is threatened by the scheming rhino leader, Rataxes. With courage and the support of his companions, Babar must find a way to protect his home and bring his community together. Filled with adventure, friendship, and bravery, this animated classic captures Babar’s journey from a young leader to a beloved hero, embodying themes of resilience and unity in the face of danger.
Dates And Timings
- Friday 22 November, 7:30 pm
- Location: MIA Park
- Fee: Free
The Secret of NIMH
Widowed mouse Mrs. Brisby faces a desperate challenge when her family must move before the farmer’s plough arrives—but her youngest son is too ill to travel. Seeking help, she turns to a group of mysterious rats who possess remarkable intelligence due to past experiments. With the aid of the wise elder Nicodemus, Mrs. Brisby finds herself entangled in the rats’ internal struggles, risking everything to save her family.
Dates And Timings
- Saturday 23 November, 7:30 pm
- Location: MIA Park
- Fee: Free
First come, first served. Limited capacity. Tickets to be distributed at the entrance 45 minutes before the screening. Click here to learn more about the ‘Cinema Under The Stars’.
‘Cinema By The Sea’
A Troll in Central Park
Gentle troll Stanley, gifted with the power to grow plants, is banished from his dark kingdom and finds himself in New York’s Central Park. There, he befriends young siblings Gus and Rosie. However, the mean Gnorga, determined to ruin Stanley’s happiness, follows him, threatening both his life and the children’s. Together, they must find a way to overcome Gnorga’s menacing plans and protect their newfound friendship.
Dates And Timings
- Thursday 21 November, 6:30 pm
- Location: West Bay Beach
- Fee: Free
Hansel and Gretel
Brother and sister Hansel and Gretel are sent to gather berries after upsetting their struggling mother by wasting food. Lost in the woods, they discover a magical gingerbread cottage and are welcomed by a seemingly kind old woman named Griselda. However, Griselda reveals her true identity as a witch and imprisons the children with plans to eat them. The siblings must rely on their wits to escape.
Dates And Timings
- Friday 22 November, 6:30 pm
- Location: West Bay Beach
- Fee: Free
Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland
Young Nemo journeys into the magical realm of Slumberland each night, befriending King Morpheus and exploring wondrous landscapes. However, when Nemo opens a forbidden door, he accidentally releases the Nightmare King, plunging Slumberland into darkness. With the kingdom at risk, Nemo must rally his friends and enter Nightmare Land to save the king and restore peace. An animated fantasy, Little Nemo celebrates imagination, friendship, and courage in the face of fear.
Dates And Timings
- Saturday 23 November, 6:30 pm
- Location: West Bay Beach
- Fee: Free
First come, first served. Limited capacity. Tickets to be distributed at the entrance 45 minutes before the screening. Click here to learn more about the ‘Cinema By The Sea’.
Source: Doha Film Institute (DFI)
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