Montclair Film to launch drive-in movies at MSU

BY JAIMIE JULIA WINTERS
winters@montclairlocal.news

Montclair Film and Montclair State University will begin showing films to drive-up moviegoers.

The Carpool Theater program, launching next Friday, June 12, will follow in the tradition of a classic drive-in movie experience with approved protocols for social distancing.

“Working with state approved protocols for social distancing for drive-in theaters, we are excited to present our first Carpool Theater,” said Montclair Film Executive Director Tom Hall. “We look forward to welcoming our community back to the movies and are grateful for the cooperation, patience, and understanding of our guests as we work diligently to ensure a safe experience for all.”

On May 13, Gov. Phil Murphy signed an executive order allowing for drive-in theaters or drive up events, "so long as all participants remain in their cars. If vehicles are closer than six feet apart, then all windows, sunroofs, or convertible tops must remain closed, unless the safety of the occupants is endangered," Murphy said in May.

At sunset on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, June 12-14, MFF will present three films at Lot 60 on the campus of Montclair State University. 

On Friday, June 12, Montclair Film will present a screening of "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," John Hughes’ classic 1986 comedy starring Matthew Broderick.

On Saturday, June 13, moviegoers can watch "Sing," the 2016 animated family classic featuring over 60 pop songs for music lovers of all ages.

On Sunday, June 14, Montclair Film will present an advance screening of Dawn Porter’s new documentary "John Lewis: Good Trouble," highlighting the life and advocacy work of Congressman John Lewis. This screening will also feature a pre-recorded Q&A with Dawn Porter following the film. 

Tickets for each screening are $25 per a car and limited to 100 cars per screening. Tickets must be purchased in advance at Montclairfilm.org and go on sale to Montclair Film Members on Saturday, June 6, and the general public Sunday, June 7.  

Patrons are encouraged to bring snacks from home as no on-site food service will be provided. A full set of detailed plans and protocols will be e-mailed ticket buyers ahead of each screening, and will be enforced without exception to ensure the safety of all guests and staff.

The lot is located at located at  35 Clove Road, Little Falls.

All films begin promptly at sunset and ticketed patrons should plan to arrive early in order to follow strict safety precautions for the screenings. Venue opens at 7 p.m.

Future Carpool Theater screenings are currently being planned for July and August. 

For information about Montclair Film, visit www.MontclairFilm.org.