Kathmandu is rediscovering the simple joy of shared cinema. Beyond the glow of streaming services and the confines of multiplexes, a growing movement of free film screenings is transforming public spaces into vibrant community hubs. These aren’t just showings; they’re catalysts for conversation, cultural exchange, and a renewed appreciation for the art of filmmaking, offering a vital alternative to commercially-driven film distribution.
For many in Nepal, the collective experience of cinema is deeply ingrained in the cultural memory. Historically, open-air screenings were a common sight, bringing entire communities together under the night sky. But as multiplexes became the norm, access to a wider range of films—particularly those outside the mainstream—diminished. This shift has prompted a resurgence of interest in accessible, community-based screenings, amplifying stories that might otherwise go unseen. The core idea, as many organizers emphasize, is simple: Oscar Chalachitra (film) Club co-founder Arjun Tiruwa explains, “The purpose is to share cinema.”
Bridging Generations and Expanding Horizons
The impact of these free screenings extends beyond mere entertainment. They offer a crucial opportunity to revisit classic films and introduce them to new audiences. “Some of the most beautiful works of cinema come from different cultures, languages, and traditions, and people may never see them without these screenings,” Tiruwa says. He points to a recent screening of Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s 2010 Palme d’Or winner, Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives, a Thai film unlikely to receive commercial distribution in Nepal. “After the screening, we discussed the film together. Everyone shared their own thoughts, and I understood the movie better by listening to others.”
This collaborative aspect is central to the experience. Mukesh Chapagain, a cinema student and regular attendee of Oscar Film Club screenings, describes the “special pleasure” of watching films with fellow enthusiasts. “By participating in the question-and-answer sessions after the screenings, many aspects of the film come out, giving people an opportunity to open up to each other,” he notes. The screenings foster a sense of community and encourage critical thinking about the films themselves.
A Cultural Mission for Alliance Française Kathmandou
The initiative isn’t limited to student-led organizations. Alliance Française Kathmandou, a cultural center dedicated to promoting French arts and language, has also embraced the concept. Lucie De Barros, the organization’s cultural and communication coordinator, explains that free screenings are a natural extension of their mission. “In an era of streaming services where people are mostly watching films alone at home, these screenings help preserve the communal experience,” she says.
Alliance Française hosts screenings of French and Francophone films every Thursday, and dedicates one screening each month to Nepali filmmakers, showcasing short films and animated works that often struggle to uncover a wider audience. De Barros also highlights the educational benefits, noting that films provide a practical and engaging way to learn and practice languages. “Movies offer a unique window into everyday life, revealing diverse perspectives on culture and language,” she says. “For French learners, they’re a fun way to practice the language outside the classroom.”
Beyond Access: Financial Relief and New Perspectives
The financial accessibility of these screenings is particularly important for students and those with limited resources. Tiruwa emphasizes that removing the cost barrier encourages broader participation. “There is no class for watching movies. Free screenings create it easier for people to come without worrying about money,” he says. This increased access, he believes, leads to a greater overall understanding and appreciation of cinema.
The impact extends beyond simply watching films. Puspa Bhandari, a frequent attendee, recalls meeting Subina Shrestha, the director of the documentary Devi, at a screening. “You rarely meet women directors with such a fierce note of her surroundings, and that experience and acknowledgement revived my passion as a viewer,” Bhandari shares. These screenings create opportunities for direct engagement with filmmakers and a deeper understanding of the creative process.
Cultivating Community Through Collective Viewing
Bhandari believes that free film screenings are essential for preserving the cultural value of cinema and combating a sense of isolation in modern life. “I feel that people losing a sense of leisure and hamster wheeling through life is sad,” she says. “Film screenings are essential for culture, context, and the shaping of society’s spirit.” She emphasizes the power of collective viewing, noting that “especially when you watch film screenings, it feels like everyone is riding through the same wave and the collectivism impacts your life.”
The true value, organizers and attendees agree, lies in the experience itself—the shared moments, the lively discussions, and the connections forged through a common love of film. These screenings are more than just a way to watch movies; they are a way to build community, broaden perspectives, and rediscover the magic of cinema.
Looking ahead, organizers plan to continue expanding the reach of these screenings, seeking new venues and partnerships to bring films to even wider audiences. The momentum is building, suggesting a sustained revival of communal film viewing in Kathmandu. What are your thoughts on the importance of shared cinematic experiences? Share your perspective in the comments below.
Keep reading
