One of the best times of my life was when my folks took us to the drive-in when we were kids, and later, of course, when I went with my friends or a significant other. There was nothing better than rolling down our window, reaching for the speaker and settling in for a two-hour movie. Sometimes we even watched the show!
Then of course making a run to the concession stand for popcorn, hot dogs and drinks and running into even more friends.
Needless to say the drive-in lost money. There was always those kids who were too cheap to pay who hid in the trunk. I remember one time someone hid under my knees and we covered him up with a blanket. The ticket booth employee rolled his eyes and called us on it. That kid was outta there.
I read in the 1950s that there were 4000 drive-in theaters in the U.S. Today there are 300. To research Black Pearl, my Cold Case Suspense, (up for the 2020 Colorado Book award Thriller category, by the way) I learned that Montrose, Colorado still has one. It’s called the Star Drive-in. Yet another reason for me to love Montrose.
One reason for the demise of drive-ins, and, I would speculate for regular theaters as well, is digital films, and how easily they are to access in our homes.
I, for one, when social distancing becomes a, Dear God, please, distant memory, would love to go to the drive-in. It’s about watching a movie, but a whole lot more.
What do you think? Would you welcome the opportunity to go to a drive-in?
Stay well, my friends.
~ Donnell
