Grease was the word at drive-in movie event

By Aimee Le Cocq

Victoria Le Prevost, left, and Krista Legalloudec, both 18, won a competition to watch the film Grease in a classic car at the Island’s first drive-in movie showing at Salerie Corner on Saturday. (Picture by Aimee Le Cocq, 0608334)

SALERIE CAR PARK was transformed into a 1950s drive-in on Saturday night for the start of Midsummer Magic. For the first time in the island cars lined up to watch the classic film musical Grease on a big screen with free popcorn and drinks served to viewers.

Around 750 people watched the film that replaced the original choice of I Am Legend, which was withdrawn by distributor Warner Brothers. Some of Sure’s staff, which sponsored the event, dressed in 50s-inspired clothing to help set the mood.

‘People can expect a big screen, with big movies and big fun,’ said Steve Smith, head of PR at Sure. ‘I think it’s fantastic.

‘We have people dressing up and everybody got into the spirit. As a company, we operate in the community so it’s an opportunity for the bigger companies to give something back.’

This year’s screen was double the size of last year’s and has been moved to Cobo.

‘It’s a great way to entertain the kids and give them something fun to do during the holidays.’

Brian, 72, and Ann Tostevin, 69, had come with their family to watch the movie.

‘We’ve not done this before, we just wanted to do something different,’ said the couple.

‘We think it’s great and it was nice to get free popcorn. We’ve brought a flask as well.

‘It’s a bit disappointing that it wasn’t I Am Legend as we have seen Grease a few times before, so it would have been nice to see something different, but I think the organisers have done a good job.’

Sam Taylor had brought her two young nephews and they were watching the film in her classic convertible.

‘It’s something nice and something different,’ said the 32-year-old.

‘It’s good for kids and adults and just makes a change.

‘The kids like the big screen and we’ve got a good view right at the front. We’ll be going to see Bee Movie in the week.’