As the sun goes down…
After another successful Big Screen in the Park last summer at Exeter’s Northernhay Gardens, I’m excited to share the news that Exeter Phoenix are returning once again for some outdoor, big screen greatness. With another 7 films over 7 nights on the way, you’ll get to experience more cinematic escapism with award-winning drama, superhero awesomeness, sing-along musical fun and cult classics all bringing their best to the South-West’s best city.
If you’ve never gone before, well, this is your chance to enjoy impressive outdoor cinema that always offers up a unique atmosphere, whatever the weather. The fun thing about these events is also the opportunity to take as many people as you can round up and Big Screen in the Park even take away the hassle of thinking about what food and drink to get beforehand by offering a great selection out there to buy on the night. Plus, if you’re feeling it, you can pre-book your own picnic to collect and enjoy on the night, contact Exeter Phoenix for more details.
So what’s showing?
From Monday 6 August to Sunday 12 August there’s a wide range to suit everyone’s tastes, here’s the 7 you can book now with links below:
Edward Scissorhands (12), Mon 6 August (Book Here)
This haunting and darkly sweet fairytale marks the first of many Johnny Depp and Tim Burton collaborations and is as magical today as it was first time around. An inventor dies, leaving his greatest creation – an artificially-built human – alone and unfinished in an eerie castle with nothing but scissor-blades for hands. When the Avon lady comes calling Edward is exposed to the real world…
Cinema Paradiso (15), Tues 7 August (Book Here)
Celebrating 30 years since its release, Cinema Paradiso is a nostalgic love-letter to the magic of cinema. Winner of the Grand Prix at Cannes and the Academy Award for best foreign film this is an absolute must-see. With beautiful cinematography and a magnificent soundtrack, you can’t help but fall in love with this film whether viewing it for the first time or simply revisiting it once more on the big screen.
Isle of Dogs (PG), Wed 8 August (Book Here)
In a dystopian future, an outbreak of canine flu leads the mayor of a Japanese city to banish all dogs to a vast garbage-dump called Trash Island. When a 12-year-old boy defies the authorities and sets out on a daring rescue mission to save his beloved pooch, he befriends with a pack of mongrels and embarks on an epic journey to track down his dog. Featuring an impressive cast and Wes Anderson unique animation, Isle of Dogs is a visual feast for the whole family to enjoy.
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (15), Thu 9 August (Book Here)
With seven Oscar nominations to its name, Martin McDonagh’s third feature deftly balances black comedy and searing drama. Full of extraordinary performances, authenticity and wit, it’s no wonder this film made such an impact on the big screen this year.
Black Panther (12A), Fri 10 August (Book Here)
After the death of his father T’Challa returns home to the isolated and technologically advanced African nation of Wakanda to take his place as King. When an old enemy reappears to challenge his claim, T’Challa’s courage is put to the test as he is drawn into a conflict that puts the entire world at risk. Presenting a bold twist in the Marvel universe Black Panther is a dazzling standalone masterpiece oozing with style and substance.
The Greatest Showman (PG), Sat 11 August (Book Here)
Unleash your guilty pleasures and sing-along to this magical musical inspired by the colourful life of P. T Barnum. With dazzling performances and show stopping scenes Hugh Jackman leads an all-star cast in this infectious musical.
Blade Runner: The Final Cut (15), Sun 12 August (Book Here)
Widely considered Ridley Scott’s greatest masterpiece, Blade Runner oozes with cinematic style with its neon, dystopian landscape and dreamy Vangelis soundtrack. Sci-fi fans won’t want to miss this iconic cult classic.
So, there you have it, so far, find your favourites and book on the links above for Exeter’s Big Screen in the Park now! In the past, I’ve attended evenings showing the likes of Donnie Darko, Life of Pi and tigers, seen Tippi Hedren and The Birds at Somerset House in London, and last year at Exeter’s Double Locks with Spielberg’s magnificent Jaws.
Head to their site for more info: bigscreeninthepark.co.uk
Listings information
Mon 6 – Sun 12 Aug, Northernhay Gardens
Gates open at 7pm, films start around 9pm
£6 in advance / £7 on the door (Additional £4 for a deckchair)
£17 for a picnic for 2
£21 for a picnic for 2 with a bottle of wine
Tickets available in advance from bigscreeninthepark.co.uk or by calling 01392 667080
critical popcorn 