Goodwood to host immersive drive-in cinema

The film Rush about the rivalry between two Formula One drivers will be the first to be shown at The Drive-In at Goodwood . The photograph above was taken during filming in Norfolk

Audiences will enjoy a shared experience from their cars, watching a series of celebrated films brought to life by the pioneers of storytelling, Secret Cinema. Only taking place at Goodwood, the estate is confident this will be the best immersive drive-in experience in the country.

The Drive-In will recreate the American movie culture of the 1950s with fabulous set-dressing, and audiences will be encouraged to dress the part and arrive in classic cars, with the same passion and enthusiasm that they would usually bring to the Revival.

The Duke of Richmond and Gordon said: “Our reaction to the current pandemic is to try and do what we’re best at – which is bringing people together through shared passions.

“While we aren’t able to hold any of our beloved events at Goodwood right now, the Drive-In is a fabulous way to make use of the motor circuit. This represents a step towards the new normal, allowing us to help get things going again in a safe and socially distanced way. We are thrilled to be partnering with Secret Cinema as we are both about encouraging people to take a step into a different world and experience something magical, which is what we all desperately need right now.”

The Drive-In will open with ‘Rush’ – a film centred on the rivalry between Formula One drivers James Hunt and Niki Lauda during the motor-racing F1 season of 1976.

Aptly suited to the surrounds of the Motor Circuit, the film will show at 7pm (BST) on Saturday, July 4 and will run for an initial two weeks. Other titles to be shown include 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*

In time-honoured Secret Cinema tradition, Goodwood said the excitement begins as soon as you buy a ticket, as the audience is introduced to the wild and audacious Frankie and Johnny Starlight, who own the original travelling Drive In cinema.

The pre-show online experience creates a narrative hub to introduce you to these host characters and provide tips on costume inspiration and car makeovers. Each event will feature a 30-minute pre-screening performance, where Frankie and Johnny will co-host a live broadcast via JBL speakers directly into your car, where they’ll get the party started with film inspired tunes, interactive games and carpool karaoke challenges. A specially-created retro menu inspired by the much-loved American Diner will feature Goodwood organic produce, as well as the traditional treats of popcorn and ice-cream provided by Häagen-Dazs. In order to adhere to social distancing measures all food and drink will be delivered directly to your car.

Max Alexander, CEO, Secret Cinema, commented: “Secret Cinema allows people to escape reality through the magic and wonder of iconic and beloved films, and this is just what people need at the moment. We’re honoured that Goodwood chose to partner with us, what an incredible and iconic location with its heritage and prestige to launch our first drive-in. This is going to be an incredible series of events with a phenomenal atmosphere. No one produces events like Secret Cinema.”

*Tickets go on presale today (June 18) at 10am via O2 Priority and are available at https://tickets.secretcinema.org/drive-in from Monday June 22 at 10am. Prices start at £50 per car.

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