Cinema Akil brings back ‘Summer of Classics' season
Cinema Akil has announced the return of its Summer of Classics season, offering audiences in Dubai the chance to revisit 14 iconic films that span nearly 100 years of cinema history. As the summer slows down in terms of new blockbuster releases, this curated programme offers a journey through landmark works that continue to resonate with viewers across generations.
The selection begins with two silent-era masterpieces from 1925: The Gold Rush and The Phantom of the Opera. Charlie Chaplin's timeless tale of hardship and resilience in The Gold Rush retains its charm and emotional pull even today, while The Phantom of the Opera showcases the enduring impact of gothic horror and the power of cinematic storytelling without dialogue.
From West Africa, Ousmane Sembène's The Money Order (Mandabi) presents a critique of postcolonial bureaucracy and holds historical significance as the first film made in the Wolof language. The programme then shifts to the mid-20th century with Rebel Without a Cause, in which James Dean gives voice to the angst and alienation of postwar youth, a theme that finds a modern echo in La Haine, set in the politically charged streets of 1990s France. Both films explore the frustration of young people unheard by society.
Themes of identity, belonging and expression run deeply through the programme. Dead Poets Society celebrates the transformative power of language and mentorship, while Edward Scissorhands tells a poetic tale of difference and acceptance through the lens of a gentle outsider. Similarly, Before Sunrise and Before Sunset explore the intimacy of fleeting connections and the weight of time through two deeply personal encounters, while Memento dives into fractured memory and identity in a gripping psychological narrative.
The season also showcases films of epic scale and emotional depth. Braveheart captures the spirit of resistance and sacrifice in a tale of freedom and heroism, while Batman Begins redefines the superhero genre through a darker, psychologically rich portrayal of trauma and transformation.
Rounding out the programme is Wes Anderson's visually lush The Grand Budapest Hotel, a bittersweet exploration of friendship and loss, and Undine, a lyrical, contemporary myth where love and water intertwine in a quiet meditation on longing.
Through this diverse lineup, Cinema Akil's Summer of Classics invites audiences to reconnect with some of the most enduring works in cinema. These films, drawn from across genres, cultures and eras, not only entertain but continue to challenge, inspire, and comfort, offering timeless reflections on what it means to be human.
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Broadcast Pro
09-07-2025
- Broadcast Pro
Cinema Akil brings back ‘Summer of Classics' season
Spanning a full century, from the silent wonders of the 1920s to the poetic tales of today, this programme brings together 14 films that continue to move audiences around the world. Cinema Akil has announced the return of its Summer of Classics season, offering audiences in Dubai the chance to revisit 14 iconic films that span nearly 100 years of cinema history. As the summer slows down in terms of new blockbuster releases, this curated programme offers a journey through landmark works that continue to resonate with viewers across generations. The selection begins with two silent-era masterpieces from 1925: The Gold Rush and The Phantom of the Opera. Charlie Chaplin's timeless tale of hardship and resilience in The Gold Rush retains its charm and emotional pull even today, while The Phantom of the Opera showcases the enduring impact of gothic horror and the power of cinematic storytelling without dialogue. From West Africa, Ousmane Sembène's The Money Order (Mandabi) presents a critique of postcolonial bureaucracy and holds historical significance as the first film made in the Wolof language. The programme then shifts to the mid-20th century with Rebel Without a Cause, in which James Dean gives voice to the angst and alienation of postwar youth, a theme that finds a modern echo in La Haine, set in the politically charged streets of 1990s France. Both films explore the frustration of young people unheard by society. Themes of identity, belonging and expression run deeply through the programme. Dead Poets Society celebrates the transformative power of language and mentorship, while Edward Scissorhands tells a poetic tale of difference and acceptance through the lens of a gentle outsider. Similarly, Before Sunrise and Before Sunset explore the intimacy of fleeting connections and the weight of time through two deeply personal encounters, while Memento dives into fractured memory and identity in a gripping psychological narrative. The season also showcases films of epic scale and emotional depth. Braveheart captures the spirit of resistance and sacrifice in a tale of freedom and heroism, while Batman Begins redefines the superhero genre through a darker, psychologically rich portrayal of trauma and transformation. Rounding out the programme is Wes Anderson's visually lush The Grand Budapest Hotel, a bittersweet exploration of friendship and loss, and Undine, a lyrical, contemporary myth where love and water intertwine in a quiet meditation on longing. Through this diverse lineup, Cinema Akil's Summer of Classics invites audiences to reconnect with some of the most enduring works in cinema. These films, drawn from across genres, cultures and eras, not only entertain but continue to challenge, inspire, and comfort, offering timeless reflections on what it means to be human.
What's On
04-07-2025
- What's On
Summer of Classics is back at Cinema Akil
Picture this – 17 legendary movies, from across eras and genres, all packed into one season. That is the Summer of Classics at Cinema Akil this season, back to our screens for another run. We love Cinema Akil and we're positive they love us because some of the movies on this list will make your heart sing as you move through space and time on celluloid. The idea of a summer of classics is that when the steady stream of new movies starts to dwindle during this season, we look back in time and rediscover the best classics out there. This roster of carefully curated movies will take you all around the world. On this list we have cult favourites, beloved classics, obscure gems and underrated titles – this is a tribute to these timeless world masterpieces, some of which will be celebrating landmark anniversaries. When we say classics, we really mean it – think flicks like Rebel Without a Cause, Batman Begins, Braveheart, Edward Scissorhands, Grand Budapest Hotel and more. Tickets, along with the calendar of screenings and further information about the movies, are available to purchase on The schedule for the month is yet to be released, so stay tuned on the website and on the socials for that. Find the full list of movies below Memento (2000) (2000) Undine (2020) (2020) Braveheart (1995) (1995) La Haine (1995) (1995) The Money Order/Mandabi (1968) (1968) The Gold Rush (1925) (1925) Dead Poets Society (1989) (1989) Edward Scissorhands (1990) (1990) Rebel Without a Cause (1955) (1955) Before Sunrise (1995) (1995) Before Sunset (2004) (2004) Batman Begins (2005) (2005) The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) (2014) The Phantom of the Opera (2004) @cinemaakil Images: Filmgrab > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
UAE Moments
03-07-2025
- UAE Moments
Cinema Akil Launches 'Summer of Classics' Program
Dubai's beloved independent cinema, Cinema Akil, is turning up the heat this season with its much-anticipated 'Summer of Classics' film program. Running from July 11 to September 25, 2025, this cinephile-friendly series is bringing back a curated selection of timeless movies that have defined—and defied—genres. Whether you're a fan of silent-era comedy, French arthouse, Hollywood rebellion, or mind-bending thrillers, the lineup promises something for everyone. The program offers a rare chance to see these cinematic landmarks the way they were meant to be experienced: on the big screen. 🎬 Featured Films in the 2025 Lineup This year's 'Summer of Classics' showcases an eclectic mix of genres, countries, and eras: The Gold Rush (1925) – Charlie Chaplin's legendary silent comedy The Phantom of the Opera (1925) – A gothic horror classic The Money Order (Mandabi) (1968) – Ousmane Sembène's powerful Senegalese satire Rebel Without a Cause (1955) – James Dean's iconic teen drama La Haine (1995) – A gritty French masterpiece on race and rebellion Dead Poets Society (1989) – A soul-stirring tale of education and individuality Edward Scissorhands (1990) – Tim Burton's fairytale of loneliness and beauty Before Sunrise (1995) & Before Sunset (2004) – Richard Linklater's poetic love story told in real-time. Memento (2000) – Christopher Nolan's mind-twisting thriller Braveheart (1995) – Mel Gibson's Oscar-winning epic Batman Begins (2005) – A bold reboot of the superhero myth The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) – Wes Anderson's whimsical tale of nostalgia and loyalty Undine (2020) – A modern German romance rooted in myth Why You Shouldn't Miss It Cinema Akil's 'Summer of Classics' is more than a film series—it's a cultural experience that invites viewers to revisit groundbreaking works or discover them for the first time. The films have been carefully selected for their artistic impact, emotional resonance, and enduring relevance. Whether it's the stylized aesthetics of The Grand Budapest Hotel or the moral ambiguity of La Haine, every screening offers a deep cinematic journey. Where to Watch Screenings take place at Cinema Akil in Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Dubai's creative arts hub. Known for its intimate ambiance, arthouse vibe, and commitment to diverse storytelling, the venue is a must-visit for film lovers year-round. Join the Celebration of Cinema Dubai's film fans now have the perfect reason to escape the summer heat and dive into a cool, dark theater filled with the magic of movies. Whether you're discovering Mandabi for the first time or revisiting Dead Poets Society, 'Summer of Classics' is your ticket to film history.
