If the first image that comes to your mind when you think ‘movies’ involves darkened theatres and boxes of popcorn, you’re missing out on the novelty of outdoor cinemas.
From beach-bound film parties to a (literal) starlit screening at an ancient hilltop fort, Singapore is home to an array of al fresco movie events that’ll get you in the buzz and redefine your movie-going experience. Here’s a selection of unmissable events.
Annual Film Extravaganzas
Peroni Sunset Cinema
When: May
Held on the white sands of Tanjong Beach, Sentosa, Peroni Sunset Cinema is an Instagram-worthy annual affair that features critically-acclaimed movies, live DJ sets and refreshing brews.
The event’s programme focuses primarily on modern releases, with 2018’s event featuring a range of Oscar-worthy movies and contemporary dramas like Molly’s Game, The Post and The Shape of Water.
If you’re hoping to make friends with fellow film lovers, we recommend arriving early to watch the sunset and soak in the pre-screening buzz, accompanied by instrumental and electronic beats. The DJ’s live set and film audio will be broadcasted via noise-cancelling wireless headphones, which will probably make it difficult to get a whispered conversation going while fully immersed in the experience.
For more information, visit the official website.
Films At The Fort
When: August
Get your picnic mats ready in anticipation of a starlit movie screening with Films At The Fort. Held in the natural amphitheatre of Fort Canning Green, this annual event is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy a dose of nature.
Based on previous screening schedules, visitors can expect to choose from a selection of romance, cult classics and quirky dramas. 2018’s line-up of movies included The Disaster Artist, directed by the irrepressible James Franco, and classic tear-jerker The Notebook.
Keep your eyes on their official website for updates.
Weekly and Monthly Screenings
Open Air Film Club Singapore
When: Last Friday of every month
An outdoor movie screening that’ll have you rubbing shoulders with local entrepreneurs, Open Air Film Club Singapore should be right up the alley of film fans and socialisers alike.
Held on the rooftop of The Hive—a buzzing co-working space in the heart of the city—this social gathering of film lovers happens on the last Friday of every month. The movie selection at these monthly screenings hearkens to the 90s, so if nostalgic films like Dirty Dancing, Forrest Gump and When Harry Met Sally are your jam, be sure to check out their schedule.
For more information, visit the official website.
Popcorn Pop Up Cinema
When: Weekly, but do visit their events page for updates.
If you’re looking for a wild card, the ever-popular Popcorn Pop Up Cinema (say that ten times really fast) is bound to entertain.
Organised by Popcorn—a local movie booking app—This regular social gathering of film aficionados and movie lovers takes place across the island, on a weekly basis. Screening venues at this madcap movie extravaganza range from al fresco restaurants in the charming Peranakan* enclave of Katong to verdant lawns along the scenic Marina Bay.
The movies on display are equally eclectic, ranging from goofball comedies like Shaolin Soccer and Tarantino titles like Reservoir Dogs to family-friendly animations like Brave and Zootopia. Check out their events page, and you’re certain to find a movie screening to suit your fancy.
For more information, visit the official website.
*The term is an Indonesian/Malay word that means “local born”, which generally refers to people of Chinese and Malay/Indonesian heritage.
Roving Movie Experiences
Be My Kaki Bus
When: Check their Facebook Page for updates
Let’s face it—Movies aren’t quite as fun without a kaki (local term of endearment which translates to ‘buddy’). Explore Singapore’s suburbs, befriend local film fans and get your movie fix with Be My Kaki Bus.
A mobile bus equipped with a movie screen, this roving cinematic experience tends to set up in Singapore’s heartland neighbourhoods, with screenings held at parks, community centres and a variety of other public areas. Their film programme consists primarily of blockbuster action flicks and local crowd-pleasing comedies.
Movie Mob
When: Check their Facebook page for updates
A roving cinema with mass appeal, Movie Mob has been going strong for almost a decade. From screenings under the stars to outdoor screenings at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the organisation’s range of events has something to offer all lovers of cinema. Movie Mob also organises occasional drive-in cinema experiences, for those of you who’d like to relive iconic Hollywood moments.