Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic that has in part crippled certain sectors of the economy, there have been innovations springing up to enable people live their normal lives despite the pandemic.
In the movie industry, we had film production companies opt for online releases on digital platforms such as Netflix, Afrilix, HBO, and the likes. Just to make sure that movie lovers still get to watch that long-awaited movie and also to keep people engaged during the lockdown period.
Yes! We saw those movies and yes we were engaged, but… we still did not get that cinematic experience – the popcorn, the drinks, the screams, the leaning and whispers, the laughter, the surround sounds, and of course the big screen. These are the things I look forward to when going to the cinema.
You might want to argue with me that you can get these at the convenience of your home. I bet you, you are saying this because you are not a movie lover and probably have not been to a cinema. The ambience in a cinema is something else, such that it keeps you relishing the moment and looking forward to coming back for more after you’re done.
Just when I thought it would take a long time before I visit the cinema again, the outdoor drive-in cinema was introduced. Oh my, what a relief! Although the outdoor drive-in cinema is not a new experience in the world, it is quite new in Nigeria.
For those who may not know what the outdoor drive-in cinema is, “it’s a form of cinema structure consisting of a large outdoor movie screen, a projection booth, a concession stand, and a large parking area for automobiles, where customers can view movies from the privacy and comfort of their cars”. – Wikipedia
This is a whole new experience I think you should have. You drive in, find a suitable place to park, stay in your car or come out and sit on your car, have your eyes glued to the big screen and enjoy your movie out there under nature with your popcorn and drink by your side.
When you choose to stay in your car, you tune your radio to a particular frequency and enjoy your movie. Don’t you just love that? Come to think of it, I think it’s time we experienced another way of screening movies like we often see in Hollywood movies. I can now talk and critique a movie or discuss a scene with my partner and not get shushed by other movie lovers.
A few movies have been screened in Abuja so far by Playnetwork, Genesis, and Silverbird Cinemas so you have the freedom of choice. Genesis Cinemas in collaboration with Central Park does her movie screening at Central Park. Playnetwork, which pioneered the drive-in cinema, screens her movies at Trancorp Hilton car park, while Silverbird screens her movies at the Silverbird Entertainment Centre (SEC) Central Business District, Abuja.
The internet has made it easy, so all you need do is book your ticket(s) online and arrive on the screening day and voila! Enjoy your movie.
So when you think about hanging out this period, since most of our favourite hangout spots have been temporarily closed, the drive-in cinema would be a safe and convenient choice. This shows that even in the pandemic, we can still go to the movies for a date with family or friends to have fun, easing the boredom and enhancing family and friendship bonds.
