Drive-In Movie Memories 2006
Distributed by Janson Media, 88 Semmons Road, Harrington Park, NJ 07640; 201-784-8488
Produced by Don and Susan Sanders
Directed by Kurt Kuenne
DVD, color, 75 min.
College - Adult
Film Studies, Popular Culture
Date Entered: 07/28/2006
Reviewed by Dawn Eckenrode, Reference and Instruction Librarian, Daniel A. Reed Library, State University of New York College at FredoniaThis highly entertaining and well-edited documentary provides a detailed account of the history of the drive-in movie theater, from the 1930s to the present day. The film intersperses nostalgic, campy archival footage and photos with entertaining interviews and reminiscences from a variety of notable personalities in the film industry, including well-known film critic, Leonard Maltin, and actor Barry Corbin, who is know for his role as Maurice on the popular television show, Northern Exposure.
The film touches upon many unique facets in telling the story of the drive-in theater: from problems and solutions for sound projection, to the inclusion of playgrounds and concession stands, and ways of coping with the weather. While the film is comprehensive and thorough in its treatment of the topic, it refrains from getting bogged down with minutiae, and manages to maintain an engaging and consistent pace throughout. Especially interesting is the underlying story of how the drive-in theater evolved from one entrepreneur’s idea for an easy way to make money to a hugely popular cultural phenomenon. The film also covers the decline of the drive-in theater and its recent resurgence as a form of family entertainment. Overall, this is a well-researched and interesting look at a classic form of Americana.
Awards:
- Winner, Best Editing, Rhode Island Film Festival
- Winner, Texas Award, USA Film Festival
- Winner, Best Documentary, Breckenridge Film Festival
- Winner, Best Documentary, Big Bear Lake Film Festival