Let’s go to the movies

Movie lovers have a new place in Windsor to watch their favourite flicks.

UWin Cinemas held their grand opening Jan. 30 with a screening of Rush at Erie Hall at the University of Windsor.

While not the first student-run theatre in Ontario, it is the first movie theatre opened at the university. Michael-Anthony Ferrato, 23, the creator of the Cinemas, said he wanted to provide something new for students at the university.

“From those we’ve talked to about it they seem really excited about it,” said Ferrato. “They feel it’s something that will really add to the student life and experience on campus.”

UWin Cinemas has an agreement with Canadian film distributors allowing them to screen various pre-released titles, movies that have left theatres but are not on DVD yet, as well as recent and classic blockbusters.

The idea to hold movie screenings came from the need to raise money for the Windsor Lancers Club Baseball Team.  As a club, the team is funded by its members instead of the university.

Victoria Kirst, 20, who attended the grand opening, said while she agrees with supporting the team, Ferrato should think of other uses for the money depending on the Cinemas’ success.

“I don’t think people see the amount of funds that go into (sports),” said Kirst. “But I think it would be nice to spread the goods to more things other than just sports.”

The opening screening saw more than 20 people attend, which met the expected target Ferrato had set for their first night. The theatre has space for almost 450 people.

Jessamyn Medler, 23, who also attended the opening said she hopes UWin Cinemas will listen to the audiences when it comes to deciding what movies to show.

“It could be a good idea on Facebook to have a poll to get ideas,” said Medler. “I think they did ask what movies we’d like to see to get an idea.”

Ferrato said if UWC gets enough people to like their Facebook page, they would be open to giving the students the opportunity to choose the films.

UWin Cinemas will be held weekly in room 1120 of Erie Hall and charge $3 for University of Windsor students and $5 for the general public. Doors open at 7 p.m. with each film set to start at 7:30 p.m.

Ferrato said he thinks the Cinemas can be a great stress reliever for the busy university student.

“I hope they’re able to just take a quick study break and get some enjoyment out of coming to a movie right by where they live.”