Sunset Cinema: summer nights done right
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Picture this: a balmy summer night with the sound of crickets humming in the distance.
You’re outdoors, with a cold glass of something in one hand and buttered popcorn in the other as stars twinkle above, and you watch Bradley Cooper on a big screen. No, this isn’t heaven. This is Sunset Cinema.
Taking place in the National Botanic Gardens from November to January 2019, Sunset Cinema celebrates the perfect union of warm summer nights and cinema.
An avid film buff, the event’s founder and director Simon Rollin toured a short film festival around the country before establishing Sunset Cinema in 2012. As he puts it, there’s just no better way to enjoy than under the stars.
“Enjoying film outdoors is second to none – on a lovely evening there’s nothing better,” he says. Seven years later, Sunset Cinema operates in partnership with IMB Bank to bring outdoor cinema to Melbourne, Sydney, Wollongong, Brisbane and, of course, Canberra. But it’s a lot more than just an outdoor cinema.
“It’s more than just a film – it’s a great night out for all your senses,” explains Simon. “What we hope for at Sunset Cinema is that from the moment you walk into our site to the moment you leave, you’ll be taken away by a sense of wonderment. This is delivered through the use of a beautiful space – you’re under the stars and the Botanic Gardens are something special at night.”
In addition to state-of-the-art projection and sound systems that deliver the punch of a traditional movie theatre, Sunset Cinema offers the perfect opportunity for a family night out, get together with friends or date night.
As the lights go down, guests can nibble on classic movie snacks like freshly popped popcorn, chips, lollies and chocolate or grab a burger from on-site vendor (and Canberra street food favourite) Soul Cartel. Hankering for a cheese platter? You’re also welcome to pack your own picnic, which can then be enjoyed it with a cold glass of Grant Burge wine or Young Henry’s craft beer from the Sunset Cinema bar. Non-alcoholic drinks and soft drinks are also available.
And on the big screen? A huge line up of the latest blockbusters (think Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, Bohemian Rhapsody and Widows), as well as a handful of classics you probably saw for the first time on VHS. We’re talking Love Actually, Die Hard and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert.
Simon is especially keen for Oscar-favourite A Star Is Born, which will screen twice in Canberra, including on opening night.
“Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper together are just on fire and it’s an amazing film that I encourage everyone to see,” he says. “We’re also bringing Love, Actually back to the big screen, as well as great Aussie-made period drama Ladies in Black.”
Worried about being uncomfortable outdoors? Don’t be, as seating flexibility is king. If you’re a big group, why not BYO picnic rugs and cushions. Bringing a smaller group or the kids? Reserve a backrest (a short lawn chair) or a beanbag for a comfy, cosy watching experience, with kids and adult sizes available. And if you’re planning a cute date night, you can’t go past the Bean Loungers, which are full length and allow you to recline under the stars.
As Simon puts it, Sunset Cinema “brings creature comforts outdoors” – but if this sounds like your perfect summer evening, don’t wait, as tickets won’t last long.
“We’d encourage people to book in early,” he says. “The premium options – especially the lawn lounge – sells out early, so get in while you can.”
Tickets to Sunset Cinema’s 2018/19 season are now available via the website.
the essentials
What: Sunset Cinema Canberra
When: 28 November 2018 – 12 January 2019
Where: Eucalypt Lawn, National Botanic Gardens, Clunies Ross Street, Acton
Tickets: From $13/Kids & $20/adults
Website and full program: sunsetcinema.com.au/canberra
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