It’s finally August; the time of year when we tentatively place our umbrellas in our respective cupboards and venture out into the great British summer. And for film lovers, this can only mean one thing. That’s right, we throw caution to the wind and book our tickets for open-air cinema.
Up and down the country, thousands of people are perching themselves before vast screens, under the canopy of Britain’s temperamental sky and, optimism permitting, you could be one of them. To celebrate this mass act of faith, we bring you the five best outdoor venues with the most student-budget friendly prices.
What: The Scoop at More London
Where: London
When: 15 September – 1 October
http://www.morelondon.com/events_details.asp?ID=73
The sunken amphitheatre by City Hall will this year play host to what can only be described as a random selection of films. There’s high suspense machismo in the form of Oscar winning The Hurt Locker and heartwarming family animation in Pixar’s Up. There’s also Dirty Dancing, but the less said about that, the better. And it’s completely free, although it operates on a first come first serve basis so get there fast and hold firm to your seat.
What: Screenfields
Where: Manchester
When: Up to 9 September
http://www.spinningfieldsonline.net/app/whatson/spinningfields.cfm
Manchester’s first outdoor cinema and another free venue (unless you want to push the boat out and hire a deckchair). Highlights include Miyazaki’s beautiful Spirited Away and iconic romance in The Quiet Man.
What: Chichester Cinema at the New Park
Where: Chichester, West Sussex
When: 14 August
http://www.chichestercinema.org/film/804/My-Fair-Lady-FREE-OPEN-AIR-SCREENING-NO-NEED-TO-BOOK
If the upbeat romanticism of George Cukor’s My Fair Lady just isn’t quite enough for you at an indoor cinema, see it free in the Chichester Cathedral grounds under the stars – weather conditions and light pollution allowing.
What: Purbeck Film Festival at Corfe Castle
Where: Corfe Castle, Dorset
When: 27 – 28 August
http://www.purbeckfilm.org.uk
August Bank Holiday sees the screening of a youth orientated programme at Corfe Castle. Relive your childhood with the locally filmed classic Bedknobs and Broomsticks for £5 a ticket. Lets just hope the special effects haven’t aged too badly.
What: Conkers Open Air Cinema
Where: Moira, Derbyshire
When: 7 August
http://www.visitconkers.com/events/t/performing-arts-events/open-air-cinema-mamma-mia-87.html
If any film was made for an outdoor screening, it’s probably Mamma Mia. For £5 you can sing-a-long, laugh at the questionable vocal talents of the cast and hopefully have an all round good time in the National Forest.
