Cinema lovers had another reason to step away from their usual Friday routines on October 30, as Kwiso Movie Nights returned with an evening that brought together film, cocktails and conversation at Reach a Hand Africa’s offices in Lungujja, Kampala.
Dubbed Cinema & Cocktails and powered by V&A Sherry, the event gave guests a chance to enjoy a movie screening while socialising over signature cocktails and other brand offerings.
The screening marked the first edition of Kwiso Movie Nights this year, with organisers looking to create a space where audiences can engage with film while enjoying the social experience that comes with watching a movie together.
By 6 pm, guests had started settling into their seats ahead of the screening of the award-winning film The Unforgivable. Meanwhile, the Reach a Hand and V&A teams were on hand to ensure that guests had drinks to accompany the evening, with options ranging from signature Vangrias to neat serves of V&A Sherry.
For Angella Mpayenda, Brand Manager for V&A Sherry, the partnership reflects the importance of supporting creative platforms that bring audiences together through storytelling.
“Uganda has a wealth of creative talent and stories worth celebrating. Through our partnership with Kwiso Movie Nights, we are supporting platforms that bring people together. As the movie nights become a monthly affair, we look forward to bringing the V&A experience to our consumers. At V&A, we believe the best moments are Yours to Share, and we are proud to be part of an experience that celebrates film and shared moments,” Mpayenda said.
For Reach a Hand, the collaboration also provides an opportunity to use film as a tool for entertainment, dialogue and social advocacy.
Benson Muhindo, Head of Programs, Reach a Hand, Africa, said the organisation was grateful for V&A Sherry’s support, adding that the intention is to make the screenings a regular feature in different parts of the country.
“We intend to have a movie screening every month in different parts of the country so that people, especially young people, can enjoy cinema that speaks to them. Such evenings are also an opportunity to entertain and advocate for change in society,” Muhindo said.
For some of the guests, the screening was also an opportunity to appreciate the storytelling possibilities of film. One attendee said she was impressed by the production and its portrayal of social realities.
“I did not know Ugandan film could be this good. I loved the way the film showed some aspects of the society we are living in right now,” she said.
Beyond the screening, Cinema & Cocktails demonstrated how film can extend beyond the cinema screen, creating opportunities for audiences to connect, exchange ideas and enjoy shared experiences.