The initiative's name is inspired by the popular 1983 film of the same name. According to the city government, the program aims to support residents without air conditioning at home, create more space for socializing, entertainment, and cultural activities, and help reduce isolation within the community.
Europe is experiencing peak heatwave days, but many households in Italy lack air conditioning. In Rome, many residents are even resorting to handheld fans to cope with the prolonged, intense heat.
This initiative was announced by Rome Mayor Roberto Gualtieri at a press conference on July 23 and on social media platforms.
“High-quality films, including new releases, will be screened. Each day will feature a different film so that people can enjoy them in a cool, air-conditioned environment,” Mayor Gualtieri said.
Most tourists typically choose to stay in air-conditioned hotels, so this initiative is being implemented specifically for the people of Rome.
Each person can watch a maximum of two screenings per day. All participating theaters will show the same film schedule throughout the duration of the program. City authorities said the implementation period may be extended if the heatwave continues.
Besides movie theaters, many large-scale public venues such as the Auditorium and the Palaexpo exhibition center will also open free of charge, with exhibitions for the public to visit.
In addition, libraries, theaters, co-working spaces, and many other air-conditioned public places will also be open free of charge from 1 PM to 6:30 PM daily, until August 4th, providing safe spaces for people to escape the heat.
Europe is experiencing a summer with prolonged and extreme heatwaves. Many cities have implemented special measures to support people without air conditioning at home, including providing free drinking water and opening air-conditioned public spaces to help them escape the heat.
Rome currently has 178 cooling-off points located throughout the city.