PoP-uP cinema screenings for a cause

Film is the most potent of all art forms. Vikas Punjabi Founder, Loco’Motion, a UAE-based social enterprise

“Films can change the way we see the world, influence behaviour, elevate the soul, inspire us and leave us in tears,” says Vikas Punjabi, adding, “We aim for the tears.” Vikas is the founder of Loco’Motion, a social enterprise, which works towards enriching communities through cinema. “I was a young observer when I realised the potential of cinema and how its magic influenced us,” he recalls. “In 2013, when I returned from Brazil (he was settled there) to the UAE, I felt it was time to move on to more fulfilling pastures — to create a platform to share, inspire, and impact others through independent and meaningful cinema.” Today, Loco’Motion hosts freeto-attend screenings of films and documentaries at various venues across the UAE from art galleries to community parks and labour camps to universities. Their screenings have highlighted issues like climate change, breast cancer, cultural awareness, etc. Loco’Motion brings moments of art to life. “We love to screen films, which get our audience to experience a series of sentiments — especially the ones which spark, ignite and provoke the senses.” Between then and now, has the concept of pop-up film screening gained popularity? “It is growing steadily, primarily due to the diversity of the audience residing in the country; yearning for independent and enriching content. The location and ambience makes a difference in the experience as well.” Vikas laments that unfortunately, mainstream cinema was and still is predominantly focused on entertaining as opposed to enriching, but then he’s doing his bit to bring about the change.