Written by: Rtr. Neha Anosh

The Membership Development Committee of the Rotaract Club of University of Sri Jayewardenepura brought a unique and refreshing initiative to the students community with its latest project Cinema Galore ’24. Designed to provide both entertainment and educational value, the project delivered a cinematic experience that balanced relaxation and critical thinking, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees with its two phases of film screenings.

Phase one: The Adventure Begins

The first phase of Cinema Galore kicked off on 17th of February at the B1 auditorium of the Faculty of Applied Sciences with the screening of the animated blockbuster Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Packed with thrilling action, humor and valuable lessons about perseverance and teamwork the film proved to be a perfect choice for uplifting the spirits of the university community.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, the organizing team set up a small stall outside the auditorium offering snacks. This initiative not only enhanced the overall event experience but also helped raise a modest amount of funds to support the project’s expenses. 

Phase two: A Thrilling Finale

On 6th of March, the second phase of Cinema Galore took a completely different turn with the screening of the horror/ thriller movie: ‘Companion’, at B1 auditorium of Faculty of Applied Sciences. The suspenseful plot and eerie atmosphere of the film kept the audience on the edge of their seats, showcasing a darker yet equally impactful side of storytelling. 

The shift in tone from the lighthearted first phase demonstrated the project’s versatility offering students a diverse range of emotions and thought-provoking content.

The underlying purpose of Cinema Galore was to create a space where students could unwind while gathering insights through storytelling. By combining entertainment and relaxation with opportunities for educational enhancement the project achieved its dual objectives of;

• Helping students take a break from their academic routines
• Sparking meaningful conversations inspired by the films
• Building a stronger sense of communities among attendees

Sustainable Development Goals Addressed:

Cinema Galore ’24 contributed to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals, showcasing the Club’s commitment to global priorities.

• Quality Education

The project promoted informal learning through storytelling, providing students with insights into teamwork, perseverance and psychological narratives.

• Good Health and Well being

Recognizing the importance of mental health, the project created an opportunity for students to relax and unwind from academic pressure.

• Industry, innovation and infrastructure

By creatively utilizing a university auditorium as a cinematic space the project demonstrated innovation in leveraging existing infrastructure for cultural and educational purposes. It highlighted the resourceful use of facilities which contributed to student engagement and development.  

Cinema Galore ’24 was more than just a movie screening, it was an opportunity for students to connect, engage and reflect in a relaxed and welcoming environment. As the final credits rolled and the lights dimmed, Cinema Galore left behind memories of laughter, suspense and camaraderie. It stands as a testament to how creativity and teamwork can create meaningful experiences for the community.    

Graphic Design by: Rtr. Kishgintharaam Sathananthan