For American Express cardholders, you can even still indulge in the ‘gold class’ experience at the Openair cinema. You will have access to a different screen hosting beanbags, unlimited popcorn, blankets, complimentary drink on arrival as well as service straight to your seat. The menu was pleasantly sufficient, with beverages from Giesen Wines, Pimms, 4Pines and Black Devil Cider. My pizza provided by Salts Meats Cheese was divine, and the staff were helpfully comprehensive when it came to food intolerances.
I would warn those enticed to attend: the “session times” are indicative of the time the venue will welcome you in, but not the start time of the film itself. The screening will not begin until the sun sets to allow adequate lighting, which with our daylight savings could mean 2 hours after the time advertised to arrive at the outdoor venue. Those anticipatory hours can still be enjoyed with what the event has to offer, however. A twilight drink in the picnic area to relish a social moment before voices are hushed, perhaps; the atmosphere is lovely if your schedule permits.
The aqua adventure we watched that evening extended into our own experience, and that’s more than can be said from a cosy, safe indoor cinema. The Openair cinema is fantastic for film-goers looking for a fuller experience in these wonderful summer nights.
Reviewed by Bianca Watkins