It’s a tale as old as time itself.
You meet someone you like and want to impress them, and yet the only date idea you can think of is the most generically cliched idea that’s ever walked the face of this earth – that of going to see a movie. While it does seem to work (there’s just something about being so close to the person you like in a dark setting that really gets the heart pumping), lets be honest, it’s not very original.
Then you’ve got the added pressure of trying to pick a movie that the other person will like. I don’t know about you but trying to choose between the newest The Fast and the Furious movie or something as equally suggestive as Fifty Shades of Grey has us reaching for a brown paper bag and some Xanax. And I’m not even exaggerating.
BUT, there is a solution and it’s name is the Drive-in. Yes, while the Drive-in might have reached its peak popularity in the 50’s and early 60’s (hello Grease), it’s making a comeback and Melbourne’s ready for it. Besides, it’s hard to find fault with the Drive-in when faced with the fact that everyone who got married in the 50’s and 60’s are probably still together because a) grandparents don’t get divorced; and b) grandparents don’t get divorced, whilst these days 1 in every 3 marriages end in ugly custody battles for the family dog and many nights spent wondering why you didn’t get a prenup. Coincidence? Probably not.
Lunar Drive-in
115 S Gippsland Hwy, Dandenong
When someone asks you if you want to go to a regular cinema instead of a Drive-in, the universal response should be As if!
Claiming the title of Australia’s largest Drive-in theatre, Lunar Drive-in offers the very best in a cinematic experience under the stars. Showing all the newest films and some older ones as well (I heard whispers of a Disney princess film festival, proof that dreams really do come true), be thrilled, scared, happy or sad (depending on your choice of movie) and leave wanting to come right back…..
…..to the The Lunar Cafe! Serving burgers, chips, donuts, popcorn and drinks, you’ll never run out of yummy things to stuff your face with while you’re watching the guy get the girl or while you’re wondering whether good is going to defeat evil. Who am I kidding, it will. It always does.
Village Cinemas Drive-in
155 Newlands Rd, Coburg North
Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re in not in a regular cinema anymore…..
Right you are Dorothy. Someone give her 10 points or something. The Village Cinema’s Drive-in is unlike anything you’ve ever experienced (unless, of course, you’ve already been to a Drive-in), with your ability to watch your favourite classics or the new blockbuster releases from the comfort of your very own car.
Whether you’re looking for a place to bring that special someone or wondering what to do with the family on the weekend, the Drive-in offers an old fashioned experience that’s full of fun and food. Yes, that’s right, FOOD (arguably the most important part of any movie).
You can grab a bite to eat in the retro style diner or even have it delivered straight to your car (forget UberEATS, this is the next big thing), ensuring you’ll never go hungry. Nope, not even when Anastasia breaks up with Christian Grey for the 647th time.
Rooftop Drive-in Cinema
Level 5/90 Waterfront Way, Docklands
Set against a dazzling 360 degree view of Melbourne’s city landscape, the Rooftop Drive-in Cinema provides a sparkling twist on a much-loved classic pastime.
Boasting the fact that it’s the only Drive-in cinema that’s 7 LEVELS UP, this place prides itself on being able to facilitate excitement, encourage romance and inspire nostalgia with screenings of the newest blockbusters and some old classics.
Offering a traditional candy bar set up, complete with popcorn, choctops and hot food options that include hot dogs, toasties and hot chips, this Drive-in really does have it all and is definitely sure to score you a second date. You’re welcome.
Dromana 3 Drive-in
133 Nepean Hwy, Dromana
Magic Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest Drive-in Cinema of them all?
Well I’m glad you asked evil queen from Snow White (seriously does anyone know what her name is?), because Dromana 3 Drive-in cinema sure makes a good case to be crowned number 1 in all the land.
This Drive-in plays all the hottest new films so you’ll always have a good conversation starter up your sleeve when you’re stuck in the elevator at work with that one person you sort-of-don’t-know-but-should-because-they-know-you. They also have Shel’s Diner which is modeled off an authentic 50’s style American diner, equipped with ‘back seat’ benches, bar stools and black & white tiled floors.
You can ALSO buy limited edition merchandise from your favourite blockbusters after you become completely obsessed with all the characters and, although you’ll never admit it, you secretly love the idea of having a miniature figurine of Gaston from Beauty and the Beast sitting on your bedside table, even though you’re no longer 5 and he was a bit of an a**hole.
But come on down, enjoy a movie and live happily ever after.
By Kate Gazzard
