The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Mosireen Tahrir Cinema, 2011. Source: WikiMedia

Some people believe that watching a movie in theaters is a much more enjoyable experience than streaming it online on a laptop or TV screen, and we completely agree! There’s something rather cozy about viewing films in a gigantic display as you munch on your popcorn or chips, accompanied by dozens of other excited spectators. Sadly, ticket prices are skyrocketing; indeed, some people don’t think it’s worth it to pay 50-100 LE for movie ticket. As a result, viewers are rapidly shifting to online streaming services.

This is when the Egyptian Foundation for Strategic Studies & Research (EFSSR) swooped in to save the day, just like Superman in a 3D cinematic experience. According to Ahram Online, the EFSSR announced the launch of a three-year project, Cima Masr. Basically, it aims to produce eight to ten original films a year and to construct 55 street cinemas across 27 governorates with affordable tickets.

The founder and chairman of the foundation, Hany Ghoneim, stated, “The foundation research conducted by us at EFSSR shows a profound lack of entertainment areas as 250 film theatres were shut down over the last decade, and were replaced by commercial or residential projects.” He continues, “Our target audience, 15 to 45-year-old Egyptians, represents some 15 million citizens, which is around 10 percent of the population in each governorate, who remain in need of affordable, well-equipped means of entertainment. The information we gathered drove our collective enthusiasm to cater to those needs in an efficient, new, and sustainable manner.”

In terms of details of the project, Ghoneim mentioned that ticket prices will cost only 10 LE! Moreover, the capacity of each theater will be 345 individuals, including 24 spots for those with physical disabilities. Construction of the first phase, which will consist of 20 theaters, will commence this August. This project will not only promote cinema production, but it will also provide more job opportunities and shed light on local talents.

Some time in the first quarter of 2020, Egyptians’ cinematic life will never be the same after the grand opening of Cima Masr!