On the Roof Film Festival is a yearly event that mixes cinematic experiences with breathtaking views of the city of Amsterdam. All the films are ones that have been shown at previous editions of World Cinema Amsterdam, the festival that takes viewers to Latin America, Asia and Africa.
Open-air movie nights on a roof terrace
Climb up on the roof of VU University Amsterdam for On the Roof Film Festival. Each film typically begins at 8.45pm, but the roof opens at 5pm so visitors can go and have a drink, some bites and time to enjoy the view before the film begins.
On Tuesday and Wednesday evening before the films begin, VU Amsterdam’s writer in residence, Annelies Verbeke will host a talk show. There will also be performances, such as singers and magicians, as well as delicious food related to the film of the evening.
The festival is run by the university, in partnership with the Griffioen Cultural Centre and the Rialto Cinema.
On the Roof Film Festival programme 2019
Here’s an overview of the films being shown at On the Roof Film Festival:
Tuesday, September 4: Sergio & Sergei
This hilarious Cuban film explores the special friendship between a Russian cosmonaut and a radio amateur during the fall of the Soviet Union.
Wednesday, September 5: I dream in another language
In this Mexican film, which was previously also shown at the Sundance Film Festival, a linguist arrives in a small jungle, hoping to record conversations with two elderly men, the last remaining speakers of the Zikril language.
Thursday, September 6: Supa Modo
In Supa Modo, a young girl’s dream of becoming a superhero is ended by a terminal illness, but people in her village come together to make her dream become a reality.
Friday, September 7: Weldi
In this film, 19-year-old Sami travels to Syria to join the Jihadist movement.
Get your tickets to On the Roof Film Festival
Tickets are available on the On the Roof Film Festival website closer to the time, so keep an eye on the site for the most up-to-date information. Tickets begin at 12 euros.