Sundown Cinema Sunday wraps up

The line for the free pizza stretched passed the speakers and halfway to where students were lying anxiously staring at the screen. In just a matter of minutes, University Programs would be putting on its fourth installment of Sundown Cinema Sundays with the film "I Am Legend."

For the last four weeks, UP has shown a movie on a large inflatable screen either on the Quad or - in the event of inclement weather - in the Student Recreation Center.

Though the numbers have varied slightly, between 350 and 500 UA students have attended each event.

Rachel Kelly, UP film director, said UP worked very hard and eventually decided to host the event on Sunday evenings, when the campus appeared to be the least active.

"We were strategic about the day we were going to have it on," she said. "On Sunday, even if you're coming from a long weekend with friends, you can come relax and watch a movie. And there's free pizza and free drinks."

Some students said they think Sunday night is an ideal night to come and enjoy the weather, friends and free entertainment.

"My friend told me to check it out the first time, and it seemed like a good way to spend a Sunday evening," Jack Huguley, a sophomore majoring in philosophy, said.

In addition to the convenience of the day, some students said, the event was popular because it is free.

"I think it saves a lot of people from spending money, and a lot of the time they play it earlier than the [home video] release, so you can catch it if you missed it on the big screen," said Brandon Sherrod, a freshman majoring in telecommunication and film.

Jon Peterson, a senior majoring in finance, said he felt the same way.

"Most activities in Tuscaloosa cost money, and I survive by not spending money, so this is perfect."

Meredith Beeman, a sophomore majoring in dance, said she thinks, with finals fast approaching, the event is a great way to take one's mind off the books.

"I didn't know about it until this time and it sounded really neat. It's a good way to take a study break and it sounds fun," she said.

Some students admitted to putting the event above their studies.

"It was either studying for chemistry or 'I Am Legend,' and I chose 'I Am Legend,'" Sarah Pitts, a junior majoring in music therapy, said.

Kendrick Durham, director of campus activities, said the organization hopes to establish memorable events.

"We want to keep doing things like this that are outside the box. We're going to try and do things that students aren't used to and will remember years from now as a unique part of their Alabama experience," he said.

UP hopes to take the momentum from the Sundown Cinema Sunday series and carry it on to possibly doing a drive-in movie event during the fall.