Secret Cinema launches drive-in cinema at Goodwood, screening Rush, Fight Club and Star Wars

Secret Cinema is known for its epic immersive experiences, breathing life into the worlds of iconic films with enormous sets and huge casts of actors, but it’s just one of countless creative businesses impacted by the social distancing restrictions. Early on in lockdown, it launched Secret Sofa – an at-home film club with some of the extracurricular add-ons of Secret Cinema experiences (ie. dressing up, and themed after parties). Now, the company has announced plans for a drive-in cinema staged at historic racing track the Goodwood Motor Circuit in West Sussex, in partnership with Häagen Dazs, with as much of the theatrical and immersive extras as is possible from inside your car.

The Drive-In will kick off with Rush, a film selected to suit its race track setting, but will also screen Moana, The Incredibles, Cars, Mary Poppins Returns, Zootropolis, Toy Story, Hunger Games, Knives Out, Moulin Rouge, Star Wars, Dirty Dancing, Reservoir Dogs, Pretty Woman, Fight Club and American Psycho.

Ticket-holders will have access to a pre-show online experience, where visitors are introduced to the “hosts” of the drive-in, fictional characters Frankie and Johnny Starlight. Attendees will also be given tips on costume inspiration for the event, and “car makeovers”.

Each event will feature a 30-minute pre-screening performance hosted by Frankie and Johnny via a live broadcast directly into the audience’s cars, featuring film-inspired music and interactive games. There’s also a chance for attendees to show off their costumes and car decor via Zoom, to be shown on the big screen. Meanwhile, waiters will serve American Diner food and Häagen Dazs ice cream.

Traditional cinemas remain largely closed, as social distancing makes it difficult for venues to remain profitable, so the drive-in concept is being adopted by a number of businesses to bridge the gap until normality returns. Given its track record for attention to detail, Secret Cinema’s addition promises to bring a little something extra to the experience.

Tickets for The Drive-In by Secret Cinema and Häagen Dazs go on sale Monday 22 June at 10am (BST) priced at £50 per car, and screenings start on 5 July 2020.