In the heart of the Cyclades in Greece, the serene island of Kimolos is captivating audiences worldwide with its unique open-air cinema, “Cine Kalisperitis.” Far from conventional theaters, this mobile summer cinema organizes screenings in breathtaking natural landscapes, with recent videos of its coastal setting going viral across the internet.
As seen in the accompanying image, the cinema leverages a natural “amphitheater” formed by the island’s distinctive white rock formations, providing an unparalleled cinematic experience. The screen is strategically positioned against the backdrop of the tranquil Aegean Sea, with attendees comfortably seated on smooth, wave-sculpted rocks and temporary platforms.
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The scene is illuminated by hanging lanterns and ambient lighting, creating a magical atmosphere as dusk settles over the bay. The combination of the dramatic coastal scenery, the evening sky, and the gentle lapping of waves has charmed social media users seeking distinctive summer entertainment.
“Cine Kalisperitis” is a passion project of the volunteer group “Kimolistes,” offered free of charge to both residents and visitors. Its name, as explained by the “Kimolistes,” is derived from the local term for the first star visible at sunset, a fitting tribute to its evening screenings under the open sky.
Inaugurated in 2014, the cinema operates during the peak tourist season from June to September, hosting one to two screenings per week, weather permitting. This year’s season kicked off on June 19 with a screening of “The Return” in the stunning Rema bay, famed for its “Elephant” rock formation carved by the sea.
The “Kimolistes” have confirmed that due to overwhelming public interest, particularly through daily messages on Instagram, they are actively planning their next events. The acclaimed film “Little England” is slated for screening between July 3rd and 6th, 2025, with actor Andreas Konstantinou expected to be in attendance. Specific location and time details will be announced two to three days prior to the event.
For those visiting Kimolos this summer, “Cine Kalisperitis” offers more than just a film. It’s an immersive evening that harmonizes cinematic art with the unparalleled natural beauty of the Aegean, providing an unforgettable experience nestled between the island’s iconic rocks and the shimmering sea.
Open-air cinemas are a delight that very few countries can offer. While for Greeks, catching a movie at a summer cinema and sipping a cold beverage is like an institution, for visitors it is a one-off experience, almost as enjoyable as a dive in the cool, crystal-clear waters of Mykonos or a visit to the Temple of Zeus at Sounion.
Every neighborhood in Greece has one – some as old as the history of cinema itself, perched on a rooftop with a view of the Acropolis; others, more recent entrants, are right on the water, set to the music of sailboat masts swaying in the summer breeze.
Still others are surrounded by perfumed gardens which fill the sultry evening with the quintessential Greek fragrance of orange blossoms and jasmine.
Related: Open-Air Theaters in Athens, Greece: Movies Under the Stars