Forget the multiplex and swap popcorn for gourmet treats at these less-than-ordinary Melbourne cinema experiences.
Underground Cinema
Guests at this fun, interactive cinema experience take a leap of faith when they buy tickets to see an unnamed movie in a secret location. They are rewarded with an extravagantly themed four-hour-plus show that includes live performances before the movie begins. The location is only revealed 24 hours before the event and attendees are expected to dress to match the party theme. pimp@undergroundcinema.com.au
Speakeasy Cinema
Promoting itself as ‘a picture house with no fixed address’, Speakeasy Cinema screens unusual, weird, overlooked and left-of-centre films in a variety of unlikely locations around Melbourne. From a dog movie held for pooches in the ACCA forecourt to a silent film rescored for modern times, Speakeasy puts the culture back into the cinema experience. Expect talks, discussions, drinks and live music, too. hello@speakeasycinema.com.au
Coburg Drive-In
Retro fans of the 1950s can recreate their favourite Grease or Happy Days moments at Coburg Drive-In, located around 20 minutes’ drive north of central Melbourne. The drive-in cinema projects blockbuster movies onto its 33-metre-wide screens, and sound is transmitted via the car’s FM radio. It also has regular visits from some of the city’s most well-loved food trucks. 155 Newlands Road, Coburg North, 1300 555 400
Deja-View
A boutique cinema located on Smith Street, Collingwood, just minutes from the city centre, Deja-View features a line-up of 1980s and ’90s classics, cult films and popcorn-flicks. Each screening is themed to the eyeballs and presented in full HD glory, making for a unique night at the flicks. The John Candybar is stocked with a selection of nostalgic candy bars, American treats and cinema classics like hot-buttered popcorn and handmade, themed choctops. 466 Smith Street, Collingwood, +61 404 837 034
Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI)
In the heart of the city, ACMI is a Melbourne institution, a place to celebrate the moving image in all its forms. Since its days as the State Film Centre in the 1940s it has hosted award-winning Australian and international exhibitions, films, creative workshops and education programs. One of the best cinemas in Melbourne for arthouse films, Australian classics and rare film restorations. Federation Square, Flinders Street +61 3 8663 2583
