Tribeca is taking audiences back to the drive-in this summer.
Tribeca Enterprises, Imax and AT&T said Wednesday that they are partnering to launch “Tribeca Drive-In,” a summer programming series of new and classic films, music and sporting events. It will take place in drive-in theaters and “other exclusive venues” nationwide starting Thursday, June 25. The lineup will be announced in the coming weeks.
“We’re taking the spirit of Tribeca around the country by creating a safe environment where audiences can come together and enjoy the sense of connection found by going to the movies,” Jane Rosenthal, Tribeca Enterprises and Tribeca Film Festival co-founder and CEO, said in a statement.
The organizations said that they will work with local vendors to support small businesses and tailor the experience to each community.
Tribeca co-founder Robert De Niro said they were excited to give people “something to look forward to this summer and reinvent a classic moviegoing experience for communities to enjoy together safely.”
The majority of cinemas across the country have been closed due to the coronavirus pandemic since mid-March. While some states are experimenting with a soft reopening, most major chains say they will remain closed until Hollywood studios ensure a steady stream of new programming. The earliest theatrical blockbuster on the schedule is Christopher Nolan’s Tenet, which is set to bow July 17.
Many drive-in theaters, however, have remained open, since they are naturally suited to social distancing. Trolls World Tour, which was made available to rent on VOD services on its release date, also played at 21 drive-in locations across the country. But like enclosed movie theaters, drive-ins also need programming to function.
As the lead technology partner, Imax will use its digital remastering process to enhance the image and sound experience, in addition to helping curate the program.
Imax CEO Rich Gelfond said that the hope is to “remind people of the magic of going to the movies as we look forward to reopening theaters around the world.”
(Excerpt) Read more in: The Hollywood Reporter