Love the movies? Love being outdoors? Combine the two pleasures with a night of outdoor cinema in Brisbane. Outdoor movies, both local and international, give everyone the chance to enjoy Brisbane’s beautiful balmy evenings. The big screen rises against the big sky and you become part of the action or drama. No matter your age or cinematic persuasion, there’s something for everyone, from family films to thrillers, dramas, classics and cult movies. Here’s our guide to Brisbane’s alfresco films.
Always be sure to check our calendar for details of the various outdoor movie listings in Brisbane. There's everything from rooftop movies to suburban screenings in parks.
Moonlight Cinema
Located within New Farm Park at Brisbane Powerhouse, Ford Fiesta Moonlight Cinema is a star attraction on Brisbane’s summer entertainment calendar. Soak up the last rays of sunshine in the picturesque parkland setting then kick back with friends and watch the best in Australian and international cinema, including hot new releases and contemporary, classic and cult flicks on Wednesday to Sunday nights. Spread out a picnic rug or hire a bean bed ($6) for ultimate viewing comfort. Make sure you get there early, as the bean beds are extremely popular, and there aren’t enough for everybody! And the hamper-challenged needn't despair, on-site catering is on hand with an array of food (but you are welcome to BYO food). Plus there’s a good selection of wine, beer and other beverages on sale.
Ford Fiesta Moonlight Cinema runs from 17 December 2008 to 28 February 2009, with gates opening at 6pm and screening starting at sundown, approximately 7.30pm.
Where: Brisbane Powerhouse Centre for the Arts, 119 Lamington Street, New Farm.
Limes Rooftop Cinema
These are outdoor movies with a difference - there's a cityscape view thrown in as you watch the films in a rooftop bar of the boutique Limes Hotel. There are generally two sessions each Monday and Tuesday night (approximately 6.30pm & 8.30pm) but check screening details. Sorry, but this sophisticated experience is limited to adults only, due to licensing laws. You can buy tickets online, as well as ordering fancy champagne and chocolate extras.
Where: Limes Hotel, 142 Constance Street, Fortitude Valley.
Tropfest
Known as the world’s largest short film festival, Sony Tropfest is a free, public, outdoor, annual short film festival held in February each year. The festival’s central aim is to stimulate the production of short films and then provide an audience for the work of Australia’s emerging filmmakers. From more than 700 entries each year, 16 finalists are selected to premiere their films via simultaneous satellite screenings in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth, Hobart and regional locations around Australia. It’s a great event for all – and a must-see for anyone with a passion for film.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
Brisbane Openair Cinema
Brisbane Openair Cinema’s summer series is a total entertainment experience, combining outdoor movies with DJs, live entertainment and sunset drinks and dining.
Running during March 2009, the festival features new release films, cult classics and local artists. The program is released in January. Each night kicks off at 5.30pm at South Bank's Rainforest Green – down by the river, chilled out in front of the giant movie screen. The movies start at sundown, around 7pm. You can bring your own picnic or choose from the large selection of great-value drinks and yummy food (including vegetarian choices). Note: glass and BYO drinks are not permitted. A small number of deck chairs are available for hire – but be quick! It’s first in, first served.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Rainforest Green
South Bank Christmas Movies
Bring a blanket or a bean bag and watch your all-time favourite Christmas movies on the larger-than-life superscreen for free! With two screenings (6pm and 8.30pm) from 21 - 23 December, no one need miss out on experiencing motion picture magic while sitting under the starry summer sky. A family favourite.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
New Year's Eve Movies
Get your New Year's Eve started with some fun family entertainment at South Bank Parklands. Catch some of your favourite flicks for free on the Suncorp Superscreen each December 31 (the Brisbane River views are a bonus!). Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and make the most of the beautiful balmy summer breezes. Screenings are family-friendly, kicking off at 5pm.
Where: South Bank Parklands, Cultural Forecourt
Please note: most outdoor cinema events take place between September and May.
