Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know.
Answers on booking a rental, buying your own cinema, film licensing, and how our screens are built.
Booking & Rentals
Film Licensing
Owning Your Own Cinema
Equipment & Screens
Booking & Rentals
5 questions
How do I book a cinema rental?
Get in touch via email or phone, choose the package that suits your venue and guest count, and we'll confirm your date with a 50% deposit. The remaining balance is due two weeks before your show.
Which screen sizes can I rent?
We offer rentals on our Nano, Small and Large screens, plus a dedicated Drive-In package. See our rental packages for full pricing and capacity.
Do you travel to my venue?
Yes. We charge R5.50 per km for venues more than 30km from the city centre. If you'd like us to check the venue beforehand, a site visit can be arranged for R500.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Cancellation fees depend on notice given: 25% within 4 weeks of the show, 50% within 3 weeks, 75% within 2 weeks, and 100% within 48 hours.
Date changes are free of charge as long as they're confirmed before 11am on the day of the show, and the new date falls within 3 months of the original booking.
What happens if it rains?
We ask every client to provide a back-up date in case heavy rain or wind forces us to postpone your event.
Film Licensing & What to Show
8 questions
Can I show any movie at a public outdoor cinema?
No. Any film shown outside of a private home requires a public screening licence from the copyright owner. Only licensed titles can be screened legally — this applies even if entry is free or the event is non-profit.
Which studios do you work with for licensing?
We work with Sony Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Warner Bros, Disney and Pixar. Only films already released on DVD are eligible.
Can I show movies currently in cinemas?
No. Films still in theatrical release cannot be screened at pop-up or outdoor events. You'll need to select a title that's already available on DVD.
How much does a film licence cost?
Budget approximately R2,000 per film, though fees can vary depending on the studio and title.
How long does it take to get approval for a film licence?
Studio approval typically takes up to two weeks, so it's important to select your film and plan your screening schedule in advance.
What are some fun ways to choose a film for my audience?
A few ideas that work well:
- Movie suggestion boxes at schools or community events
- Social media polls with a few curated options
- Themed nights or multiple events across different genres
Do I need to own the DVD to get a licence?
Yes. Only films that are already commercially released on DVD, a streaming service or digital download are eligible for public screening licences. Note that streaming subscriptions like Netflix, Disney+ or Amazon Prime do not themselves cover public screening rights.
Can Mobile Cinema Africa help me with licensing?
Absolutely. If you buy or rent a cinema from us, we'll guide you through the licensing process and ensure your screenings are fully legal and hassle-free.
Owning Your Own Cinema
4 questions
What's included in a Complete Cinema Package?
Inflatable screen kit, projector, projector stand, speakers, speaker stands, speaker bags, handheld microphone, cables, manuals and warranties. Delivery and training are not included.
Do you offer training?
Yes - a one-day, in-person equipment and business training programme (R5,000) covering the full pop-up cinema business model, film licensing, how to approach venues and partners, and how to operate and care for your equipment. Training is available in Cape Town or virtually.
Can I become an official rental partner?
Yes. Completing in-person training opens the door to becoming an official Mobile Cinema Africa rental partner, with rental leads passed on to you when enquiries come from your region.
Is delivery included in the price?
No. Delivery is not included in our screen-only, complete package, or drive-in package pricing. Get in touch for a delivery quote to your location.
Equipment & Screens
4 questions
What makes your screens different?
Our screens are airtight. Once inflated, they hold pressure without needing constant airflow — giving a quieter, more stable and more professional result than standard fan-inflated screens.
How wind- and weather-resistant are the screens?
Frames are fire-retardant and wind-resistant up to 37km/h, with triple-sewn seams for extra durability in real-world outdoor conditions.
Can I project on both sides of the screen?
Yes. Our screens support dual front-and-rear projection, with a removable, tensioned, wrinkle-free surface for a bright, sharp image either way.
Where are the screens made?
Proudly manufactured in South Africa - we're Africa's leading manufacturer of airtight inflatable cinema screens.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help.
Whether it's about booking, pricing, or owning your own cinema - reach out and we'll get back to you.