If there’s one thing that’s been proven throughout all of history, it’s that people like free things. And while fun can be had in dumpster diving, checking out the “Free” section of Craigslist, and waiting for the first day of spring (fro-yo!), there is a more satisfying way to get your fill of “free”—the movies.
I’m not talking about pirating, for heavens’ sake. Last year kicked off the gathering of hundreds of people for “Outdoor Films,” presented by Friends of Midtown in Midtown Cinema’s parking lot. The community put to the test just how many people could fit in such a space with their lawn chairs and blankets, Zeroday crowlers in hand, children running around, and the scent of popcorn and hot dogs wafting through the air.
Such a sweeping success of an event will be repeated—if not heightened—in the upcoming months. This summer, six films will play on the big screen (and really, it’ll be bigger this year). The first will be a “Grease” sing-along, though each event will be preceded by a live band, and the five subsequent films will be a mash-up of sci-fi, comedy, fantasy and adventure, each chosen for their beloved qualities and family-friendly content. And, of course, one of those films will include a healthy dose of the ridiculous with Down in Front’s rendition of “Godzilla Vs. Megalon,” in which improv comedians will roast the film while it plays.
Like last year, “Outdoor Films” offers an opportunity to gather a community of people who may not cross paths ordinarily and connect them with that unifying love of the movies. Come on out this year to join the fun!
All movies start at dusk in the parking lot of Midtown Cinema, 250 Reily St., Harrisburg.
2016 Outdoor Films
June 10
“Grease” Sing-Along
Opening band: Rivers
June 24
“Guardians of the Galaxy”
Opening band: Indian Summer Jars
July 8
“Godzilla Vs. Megalon”
Opening band: Vulcans
July 22
“Back to the Future”
Opening band: Great Northeast
Aug. 5
“Hook”
Opening band: Shawan and the Wonton
Aug. 26
“The Goonies”
Opening band: Flower Garden
MIDTOWN CINEMA
SPECIAL EVENTS FOR JUNE
Down in Front!
“The Room”
Friday, June 3, 9:30 p.m.
The Late Shift with Zeroday
“Dumb and Dumber”
Saturday, June 4, 10:30 p.m.
Classic Film Series
“Life of Brian”
Sunday, June 12, 6 p.m.
3rd in the Burg $3 Movie
“Monty Python and the Holy Grail”
Friday, June 17, 9:30 p.m.
Faulkner Honda Family Film Series
“Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure”
Saturday, June 18, 12 p.m.
Sunday, June 19, 2 p.m.
National Theatre Live
“One Man, Two Gunners”
Wednesday, June 22, 7 p.m.
15th Anniversary Series
“My Big Fat Greek Wedding”
Saturday, June 25, 8 p.m.
