Nairobi, a city constantly buzzing with new cultural expressions, witnessed a groundbreaking event last month that seamlessly blended the allure of outdoor cinema with the electrifying energy of the UEFA Champions League final.
Film Sunset, renowned for its immersive, pop-up cinema experiences, redefined how communities engage with entertainment by hosting a unique hybrid event at Tamarind Brasserie at Dari Office Park, Karen. This pioneering gathering brought together two passionate communities – film lovers and football enthusiasts – for a night that promised connection, conversation and shared passion.
The air was thick with anticipation as fans across the globe geared up for the UEFA Champions League final, a monumental clash pitting Italian Giants Inter Milan FC against French champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). In Nairobi, hundreds of fans didn’t just watch; they experienced the global football extravaganza, culminating in a dominant 5-0 victory for the ultimate champions – PSG.
This intense football action formed the perfect high-octane counterpart to Film Sunset’s signature relaxed cinematic vibe.
According to Ramah Komora, the brains behind Film Sunset, the very idea behind organizing this extraordinary Sunday edition at Tamarind Brasserie was to create a truly inclusive night.
Recognizing that both cinema and soccer hold a special place in the hearts of Nairobians, Film Sunset aimed to craft an experience that eliminated the need for attendees to choose between their passions.
“The energy was electric, the transitions seamless, and the community that came out showed us that this kind of hybrid experience has real potential,” stated Ramah Komora, while reflecting on the success of the event.
The Tamarind Brasserie event, featured immersive activations, interactive fan zones, and live entertainment, further enhancing the vibrant atmosphere. It even paid homage to African football heritage, highlighting the inspiration from Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi, who was the only African in PSG’s starting lineup and opened the scoring for the French side in the 11th minute.
Komora opened the curtains into the tedious, but rewarding process of planning an event of such caliber.
“It all starts with an idea. What kind of night are we trying to offer and who are we curating it for? Once we define the concept, everything else flows from that vision. From there, we scout the right location — somewhere that aligns with the vibe and can physically support the technical side of things, we then lock down logistics: permits, partnerships, equipment rentals, décor, and team coordination,” he explained.
“Programming is another key piece. We carefully choose the film and in cases like the Champions League edition, additional content that fits the audience’s interest. Every element is planned to feel seamless and intentional, from the lighting to the way guests arrive and settle in,” he added.
Tamarind Brasserie, for instance, proved to be an ideal choice, offering elegance and ease of access, plus the technical capabilities needed for both film and football screening considering factors like lighting conditions, sound control, and audience flow.
Komora revealed that on the event day, the Film Sunset team arrived hours in advance, transforming the space, rigorously testing technology, and setting up ambiance elements like cozy blankets, subtle lighting, and clear signage, all in anticipation of the eagerly awaited crowd.
Attracting the desired audience
To achieve that, the organizer explained that for film lovers, the emphasis was on a soulful and cinematic experience with a cozy setup and curated vibe, and for football fans, on the other hand, they were drawn in by the promise of a big-screen atmosphere and chill setting.
Before the main event unfolded with the cinematic feature and the football final, Film Sunset ensured the pre-sunset hours were just as captivating and communal.
To maintain a light, playful, and interactive energy as the sun dipped below the horizon, a curated mix of low-pressure games and entertainment was provided, encouraging guests to settle in, connect, and soak up the atmosphere. These “fun games” weren’t just filler; they were integral to the full Film Sunset experience.
Kamora explained on some of the engaging activities that were provided:
Trivia Challenge: Fast-paced questions covering classic movies, the Champions League, and general pop culture, with winners receiving prizes like popcorn vouchers or Film Sunset merchandise – a perfect ice-breaker.
Tic Tac Toe (Giant Edition): An oversized outdoor version of the classic game, adding a “nostalgic and playful touch” for casual play among pairs.
Ring Toss: A simple yet surprisingly addictive game that lent a “carnival-like charm” and provided light enjoyment for all ages.
Giant Jenga & Board Games Zone: A comfortable, relaxed corner featuring beloved classics like Jenga and Uno, ideal for guests who prefer to unwind and chat as dusk settles.
Selfie Station: A dedicated photo booth complete with props, professional lighting, and a Film Sunset backdrop, allowing guests to capture memorable moments from the night.
Live Band Performance: Just before the main screenings, a live band enchanted the audience with soulful acoustic sounds and mellow vibes, creating a beautiful transition from golden hour into night, and infusing the entire experience with warmth and energy.
“These elements aren’t just filler, they’re part of the full Film Sunset experience. It’s about more
than watching a film; it’s about arriving, playing, connecting, and soaking in the atmosphere
together,” he added.
According to him, the outcome of the Karen Edition of Film Sunset resoundingly surpassed expectations by far.
“People didn’t just come to watch a movie and the Champions League finals, they came to experience it. The cozy setup, the stunning location, and the shared excitement created a unique energy we couldn’t have fully scripted. The Karen Edition proved we’re onto something meaningful, and it left us inspired for what’s next,” Kamora stated joyfully.
Looking ahead, Film Sunset has an ambitious yet grounded vision: Expanding beyond Nairobi into other Kenyan cities, and eventually internationally, is part of their long-term dream.
For now, their focus remains on deepening their roots in Nairobi, a foundation that has been instrumental in shaping their unique experience and building a strong community. However, they are already exploring the potential for Film Sunset in other vibrant Kenyan cities like Kisumu, Mombasa, or Nakuru, areas that boast creative communities but might have fewer alternative cinema experiences.
by moses sagwe
