American Express Openair Cinemas are no strangers to some of Sydney’s best summer evenings. We are excited that they are returning to Bondi Pavilion from 6 February to 15 March 2020 with a packed schedule of screenings under the stars.
As the sun sets behind the screen and the last sliver of light fades away, lights are up, sounds are on, the breeze tickles your face. The stars and the night sky blends into a huge screen which now takes centre stage. The whole watching experience is immersive – we can assure you of that.
Gates open at 6pm to whisk you away and the film starts at sunset. For the true VIP cinema experience, American Express Card Members can purchase a ticket to the American Express Lounge. Card Members will enjoy their own bean bag, a cushion and complimentary blanket hire as well as some tasty treats.
On the menu is a choice of libations including Gisen Wines, Pimms, or Greenall’s Gin. There is the the usual choice selection of movie snacks and popcorn with special surprises in the Haagen Dazs ice cream and Byron Bay Cookies. Need we say more? Oh yes, the team have got you covered with gourmet Pizzas to complete the Pizza/Movie Night combo (but better!).
The Plus Ones were treated to a showing of Little Women starring Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Saoirse Ronan, and Eliza Scanlen. While adaptations can often be butchered, Gerwig’s storytelling stays true to the original literary poetry of the book and brings it to life with incredible empathy on the screen. It is a film with heartfelt confessions, strong characters, and fierce spirit. The timely arrival of the adaptation is a rousing piece of work that refreshes Loiusa May Alcott’s material for a new generation.
Little Women will be screening again throughout the season joining Joaquin Phoneix’s Oscar winning performance in Joker, Quintin Tarantino’s murderous Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, comedy JoJo Rabbit, and (if there’s one film we can recommend you see) Bong Joon Ho’s film-history-record-making Parasite.
While the launch suffered from a little drizzle this was no dampener to the evening. Guests huddled together, ponchos were provided, umbrellas were shared – the evening was made all the more romantic and special. Certainly, in the event of cancellation due to adverse weather conditions, ticket holders will be notified in advance via email and SMS with further information on how to rebook.
Whether you are arriving for a mid-week pick me up, a special date with a special person, or a post-beach movie session, 2020 would be incomplete without at least one night in the open air.
– Erika
Erika Ly is a photographer and explorer, a fiend for small bars, hidden spaces, and creative places. Follow her on Instagram at @erika.ly.
American Express Open Air Cinemas – Bondi Pavillion is on until the 12 March 2020. To see the full program and book tickets, visit www.openaircinemas.com.au/bondi.
