op-ed
We Bethelites are a privileged lot when it comes to movies. Our own Bethel Cinema, specializing in indie films (but featuring many studio movies as well), has discounted night, ladies night, and dinner-and-a-movie night, not to mention early morning matinees. Our rec center started showing (free!) outdoor films this summer. If we missed a film that has to be seen on the big screen, we might be able to catch it at Edmund Town Hall in Newtown, where second run films are shown for a mere $2 per person.
But drive-in movies? Isn't that a thing of the past?
Well, yes...but no! The first drive-in movie was shown in 1933, and the trend reached new heights in the 50's and 60's, with some 4,000 drive-ins sprouting up across the U.S. Although the vast majority have since been shut down, there is wide sweeping nostalgia when it comes to these theaters, and there are still drive-ins in almost every state because of die-hard fans who keep them going. The two closest to Bethel -- that feature new releases -- are the Overlook Drive-in Theater, in Poughkeepsie, NY -- 56 minutes from here, and the Hyde Park Drive-in Theater, also in New York, one hour and 10 minutes away. Every ticket is for a double feature. Kids under 5 are free, 5-11, $4 and adults are $8 for the two films (except on $5 Mondays). This week's double feature at Overlook includes Rise of the Planet of the Apes and Captain America, both PG-13. At Hyde they're showing The Change Up (R) and Cowboys & Aliens (PG-13).
If the novelty of a drive-in is more important than the film's newness, you can head over to the Southington Drive-In Theater right here in Connecticut, a mere 45 minutes from Bethel, to see modern classics like Finding Nemo (Aug 13) Field of Dreams (Aug 20), or The Sandlot (Aug. 27). The more recent hit Toy Story 3 is showing on Sept. 3.
There are at least two other drive-ins in the Nutmeg state. Drive-in fans can search every state for drive-in theaters at www.driveinmovie.com. (This site does not list Southington, perhaps because the movies are oldies.)
I took my kids to Overlook in the pouring rain tonight. (I should remember to include provisions in my promises). To windshield wipe (battery...gas) or not windshiled wipe, that was the question. Fogged glass was the problem. All went well, though, once I realized that we should turn the car sideways, open the windows and prop a giant umbrella on the edge of the roof. Several other cars immediately followed suit.
On balmy summer evenings, many viewers turn their mini vans or hatchbacks around and watch under blankets from the back. Others sit outside in folding chairs. The snack bars have fast food meals and treats. The best part about the latter is the 1950's commercials for "sparkling, thirst-quenching fountain drinks" and "butter-dripping popcorn," shown between features. More fun to see than you'd imagine.
So, yes, we can walk to Bethel Cinema, and most of the time, that sure beats driving! But, I have to say, a drive-in is also a must for us, at least once or twice each summer.
Overlook Drive-In Theater
Hyde Park Drive-In Theater
Southington, CT Drive-in Theater