Modern take on drive-in cinemas

Discovery Park’s drive-in cinema uses unique cinema laser projection technology.

First patented in the 1930s, drive-in cinemas were initially introduced as a solution for people who were unable to fit into smaller movie theatre seats. Over time, it faded out of popularity.

This year, the drive-in cinema is seeing a revival, in Malaysia.

Going to the movies has always been a communal experience, but with physical distancing being the new norm because of Covid-19, some have hesitated returning to cinemas.

That is why Gamuda Land has collaborated with MBO Cinemas to host a drive-in cinema at Discovery Park in Gamuda Cove, Selangor, to keep up with the changing norms.

At this drive-in, one can skip the long queues to buy tickets and snacks.

To catch a movie at Discovery Park’s drive-in cinema, you need to pre-book your desired showtime online.

With tickets priced at RM60 per car (maximum of four persons), drink-and-snack combos are included with each booking.

If you are hungry for more, there is the option of buying finger food such as chicken wings from Chick-Rex at the “pit stop” before reaching the outdoor cinema.

A dedicated radio frequency ensures that the sound quality of the movie is crisp and clear.

Once you have everything you need to enjoy the movie, you will be guided to your designated parking spot.

Here, you will be greeted with a two-storey-high screen that uses a unique cinema laser projection technology which enhances brightness, contrast and colour performance.

It is best to arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled time to settle in comfortably and get all the precautionary formalities out of the way.

As the earliest screenings are at 7pm, you won’t have to worry about the screen not being bright enough.

Rather than providing speakers like other drive-ins out there, at Gamuda Cove, there is a dedicated radio frequency for you to tune in for the movie’s audio. This means you need to keep the key in the ignition.

All these elements give the best possible visual and auditory satisfaction, similar to a conventional cinema.

You need not even leave the comfort of your car if you need any assistance during the show.

Simply turn on your hazard lights and the crew on standby will be with you within minutes.

Customers collecting their beverages before the movie starts. — Photos: IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star

Getting to the drive-in cinema at Discovery Park is easy, with minimal traffic on the North-South Expressway Central Link (Elite Highway).

But more than just providing a sense of normalcy, movies are a way for people with common interests to connect with each other.

Gamuda Land leasing, retail and malls director Herbie Tan said, “To us, a town is where people live and play together, to get to know and look out for each other.

“When we build towns, we are always mindful of the spaces needed to facilitate community bonding.

“So, with a little creative twist on the public spaces like a central park or town square, we are able to reconnect people safely through the classic tradition of drive-in cinemas.”

From now until Dec 6, the drive-in cinema will be screening movies released earlier this year.

Also showing are fan favourites such as Spider-Man: Far From Home and Jumanji: The Next Level.

Spots are limited to 81 cars in accordance with Covid-19 precautionary measures, so if you have been thinking of going to a cinema lately, here is your chance to try a novel option at Gamuda Cove.

Tickets are available on MBO’s website at www.mbocinemas.com