How to Become the Perfect Movie Patron for Drive
Car cinemas may seem like a relic of the past, but there are actually about 300 of them scattered across the country. Whether you’re looking to relive a childhood crammed into the backyard of your parent’s station wagon, or you’re going there for the first time, there are a few things you need to know to prepare yourself for the experience.
Turn off the lights (all)
Light spoils everyone’s cinema experience, just like in closed cinemas. Dim your headlights before entering the parking lot (especially if you are late or leaving early) and turn them off completely as soon as you find a parking spot .
Also, be sure to turn off your car lights as they can also distract others. If you need a light in your car, bring a flashlight or use your phone. And don’t step on the brake pedal lest those bright red taillights dazzle people behind you.
Turn off the machine and use a portable radio
If you can help, turn off your car completely while watching a movie, especially if it has daytime running lights. The sound of your engine is distracting, and so is the exhaust from your car. This means you need to dress for the weather and plan ahead. In hot weather, wear light, comfortable clothing so you don’t have to start the car and check the air conditioner. If it’s cold, dress warmly and bring blankets. You can always turn on the air conditioner or heater during a break.
Many motorists use FM radio to broadcast the sound of a movie, but you don’t want to drain your car’s battery with a stereo system. So take a battery-powered portable radio or tape recorder with you . You will be able to listen to the movie no matter what situation you are in.
Be mindful of other people’s views
Since the porches are open air and filled with different types of vehicles, the theater has much less control over how well everyone can see the screen. This is why it is extremely important to take into account the opinions of other people . Bringing massive cars like vans and raised trucks is like donning a ridiculously oversized top hat to a regular movie theater.
If you want to go back to your space and open the rear hatch of your SUV or hatchback, use something to tie the sunroof door so it won’t open behind the top of your vehicle. And as tempting as it is, don’t climb onto the roof of your car to watch a movie.
Many people don’t even get into their cars at the entrance. You can park further in your space and bring camping chairs or lawn folding chairs to set in a parking space right in front of your vehicle. Just make sure to leave clear space between cars so that your neighbors and other passers-by have room to pass through.
Watch out for children
Whether it’s your kids or someone else’s, kids are likely to run all over the place . Drive slowly and carefully around the area while looking for a spot. If you have brought children with you, try not to let them wander around the house. It can be dangerous to run in cars and walkways through parking aisles.
Hit the diner
Look, it’s easy to smuggle food and drink outside into a movie theater where it’s not allowed. This is probably the easiest smuggling you have ever made. But keep in mind that cars on wheels and most movie theaters survive on their concession sales. If you want to skip a few drinks ok, but at least get something from the snack bar. If you want to continue to enjoy your car ride, don’t do it because it went bankrupt.
However, the diner and bathrooms will be insanely busy before the movie starts, during intermissions, and after it’s over. So do it when the movie starts. Chances are, you’ve seen the movie they’re already playing anyway.
Expect double function and try to enjoy the experience
Most car dealerships exhibit dual features, so be prepared for a long evening . You can leave whenever you want, but you can just as well get the most out of it. Don’t expect brand new films, films that are guaranteed to be kid-friendly, or two films that go well together.
It’s also free that driveways aren’t the best way to watch movies . The image displayed on an old screen by an old projector will not be high resolution, the sound is likely to be rather poor, and sitting in a car seat or on the lawn outside while being eaten by mosquitoes is not entirely comfortable. … You go to the entrance to get the experience, atmosphere, hang out with friends or family, cuddle with your honey bunny and maybe kiss a little. If that doesn’t suit you, don’t leave.
This story was originally published in 2017 and has been updated with new information on 03/03/2020.