Since the death of the drive in, something has been brewing in the shadows of the night, the burning desire to point moving pictures with sound against a solid white wall and enjoy. Do-It-Yourself Outdoor movies are spreading like wildfire in the hope to restore outdoor viewing experience across the country. Organizations like MobMov and Rooftop Films not only want you to screen movies outside yourself, but give you all the necessary tools to do so.
MobMov (aka Mobile Movie) is a network of “guerilla drive-ins” that use car-powered video projects and FM transmitters. They are constantly recruiting to start new drive ins and grow their network. They even dabble in guerilla marketing. Shows are announced via SMS and e-mail to MobMov subscribers. Imagine curating a double feature in a parking lot filled with people waiting to see Harvey/Donnie Darko back to back.
Rooftop Films is a group I’ve already mentioned, they are the masters of rooftops and film screenings. On their site you are able to rent projectors, projection screens, p.a. systems, and even folding chairs. You can even rent as for-profit or not-for-profit, which means you could potentially make money screening your favorite movies on your roof.
Bottom line, if you aren’t feeling any of the films in Bryant Park or elsewhere this summer, keep the dream alive and do it yourself. Who Know? Maybe you were born to curate.