Every Wednesday, Kirstenbosch hosts an outdoor film screening. Most recently shown was the rock climbing documentary Reel Rock 8.
My rock climbing experience includes once making it half way up a 10-meter wall inside a sporting goods store. But this is South Africa – rock climbing is popular – and I am determined to make the most of my three-month experience and do my best to embrace the Captownian culture and lifestyle.
So, to Kirstenbosch I traveled.
Upon entering the movie-going area, I was greeted with a bucket of popcorn and tickets for a free blanket and chair – I am getting used to these media passes.
The warm welcome put me in great mood as I set up camp near the middle of the venue. NOTE: It doesn’t really matter where you sit because there isn’t a bad seat in the house (or should I say field?).
Still, I recommend arriving early because the entire event, not just the movie, is part of the experience; I enjoyed a brownie and smoothie while I watched the crowd shuffle in against the backdrop of a spectacular setting sun.
The moon replaced the sun and stars appeared. Movie time.
Reel Rock 8 – “8” because it is the 8th annual international film tour – is a compilation of four short, climbing related documentaries. Despite the persistent theme of climbing, all four shorts felt unique and different.
Like I said, my climbing knowledge is minimal, yet the stories commanded my attention. It was a testament to the quality of the film-making.
Whether you’re an avid climber or new to the sport, definitely check out Reel Rock 8.
Go for the movie. Go for the romantic setting under the stars. Go to see the beautiful botanical gardens. Just go.
What: Kirstenbosch Galileo Art Cinema
Upcoming films include The Notebook, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, and Napoleon Dynamite. For a complete program list, click here.
When: Wednesdays at 20:00
Where: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Rhodes Drive, Cape Town 7735,Western Cape, South Africa
