Lebanon Aims to Break Record For Longest Non-stop Movie Screening

This weekend, Lebanon is looking to break a Guinness World Record for the longest nonstop screening of movies.

Organized by Lalaland Lebanon, the outdoor event plans to show 14 movies almost back to back on July 24-26, spanning 48 hours, on a Nahr al-Kalb beach.

“We wanted to do something with a bit different and affordable, for people who can’t afford to go to these big outdoors events that are popular right now, like beaches or mountain venues, which are not very affordable, especially with the financial crisis,” event founder Christelle Melki told The Daily Star. “Our little event is affordable for everyone, gets a little domestic tourism going and that will also give to charity, to help however we can.

“The event will take place at a wide stretch of beach, provided by the local authorities, in order to ensure people can social distance effectively,” she added. “A food court promoting small Lebanese business will also be available, such as Agonist café, which hires special needs baristas.”

Other anti-Corona measures, such as temperature checks and masked/gloved staff will also be put into effect. All profits from the event will go towards Banin Charity Association, which helps secure food, accommodation, education and other necessities for those in need.

The two-day-long movie lineup has yet to be announced, but it’s expected to include a mix of international movies and Lebanese flicks, across all genres. In order to satisfy the continuous screening criteria for the record, episodes of Tom and Jerry will be shown between movies, so people have time for a snack break or to get seated. The previous record, set in Paris, stands at 24 hours.

The tickets have been offered in three different classes, to suit all needs.

“From 4-10 a.m., entry is free of charge because it’s an unpopular time and we’ll be showing reruns of films shown during the paid ticket times. This way people can see some free movies, have breakfast on the beach or watch the sunrise.” Melki said. “From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., a single ticket for LL15,000 can be bought, to spend the day on the beach watching movies and swimming.”

For the 6 p.m. screeening 4 a.m. period, the event will charge LL15,000 per movie. There is also an unlimited movie pass for LL60,000, spanning the whole weekend.