Pro Moviemaker magazine’s Zena Toscani suggests some al fresco cinema events to get you in the mood for summer
There’s nothing quite like sitting outside on a warm summer’s day with a glass of something cold, watching a feel-good movie with your favourite people and maybe even a picnic. While we can’t guarantee the weather or that you have these kind of facilities at home, we can guarantee a great line-up of al fresco films at iconic local venues this summer. Kick-start your summer of cinema with this month’s two classic choices:
What: THE BLUES BROTHERS (15)
Where: The Red Lion, Grantchester
When: 29 May, 7.30pm
Price: £12.50
This 1976 classic kicks off the ever-popular Enchanted Cinema line-up of movies this summer. If you’ve never been to an Enchanted Cinema screening, you’re in for a treat. Expect a healthily stocked bar and popcorn kiosk along with live music from local musicians before the screening at sunset. Seating is not allocated so arrive early to pick your deckchairs. And if the heavens open, waterproof ponchos will be provided.
What: HAIRSPRAY (PG)
Where: Market Square, Saffron Walden
When: 28 May, 7.30pm
Price: Free
To celebrate Saffron Screen’s tenth birthday a large outdoor screen will be erected in Saffron Walden’s Market Square for a free, family-friendly screening of John Water’s much-loved classic Hairspray. Dressing up, singing and dancing are encouraged, and if that’s not enough entertainment for you, the screening will be followed by 1960s music and dancing in the square. Better get practising your beehives now…
Cinema Purist
If you’re a cinema purist and prefer to watch your movies in a dark room with uninterrupted surround sound, we suggest you check out some new releases at the Arts Picturehouse. Exact dates and screening times are yet to be confirmed but we do know that everyone’s favourite leading lady, Meryl Streep, will be gracing the screens in Florence Foster Jenkins in the week beginning 6 May, while the John le Carré adaptation, Our Kind of Traitor, is anticipated the following week. Also, Reel Women are back at the Picturehouse with a night of short films celebrating women in cinema on 19 May, 9-11pm – keep an eye on their Twitter @ReelWomenUK for more information on their upcoming events.
