As the weather in Cape Town changes, it’s important to take advantage of the last few weeks left for nights out with friends and family. The Galileo Open-Air Cinema has 11 more weeks of films in its line-up before closing for the winter months.
When it comes to spending a night at the outdoor cinema, these films will really set the mood for autumn.
The Silence of the Lambs – 12 March – Kirstenbosch Garden
While spooky season is not generally associated with Cape Town’s Autumn, a good thriller always sets the mood for the cosier months.
The 1991 crime thriller, The Silence of the Lambs, is a classic, with a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score. Starring Jodie Foster as FBI trainee, Clarice Starling, and Anthony Hopkins as the iconic Hannibal Lecter, the film would make for a perfect night out with friends or a partner.
A Star is Born – 13 March – Battery Park, V&A Waterfront
This 2018 drama is a great flick for couples or music lovers, starring Bradley Cooper as Jackson Maine and Lady Gaga as Ally Campana. A Star is Born follows a struggling artist and a musician coming together to achieve their dreams, with the film receiving much critical praise upon its release.
Playing on 13 March at the Galileo’s Waterfront venue, this film is a must-see.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show – 5 March – Kirstenbosch Garden
If A Star is Born is not musical enough for you, The Rocky Horror Picture Show might be more your speed. The 1975 cult classic is quirky and campy, making for a very entertaining watch. The film follows Brad and Janet stranded on a rainy night, (very relatable for the Autumn season) before finding a spooky castle with a mad scientist waiting for them.
This film, however, is definitely for an older audience, with Galileo recommending a PG-13 rating for their screening on 5 March.
The Notebook – 14 March – Nederburg Wine Farm
While it may be a month after Valentine’s Day, it is never too late to catch a screening of 2004’s The Notebook. Following the love story of Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams), this romance drama is often considered one of the best of the genre.
The iconic rain scene is perfect for the transition into Autumn, making Galileo’s screening the perfect date night movie.
The Vow – 25 March – Kirstenbosch Garden
In case you can’t make the screening of The Notebook, be sure to catch the underrated romance, 2012’s The Vow. Also starring Rachel McAdams as Paige, alongside Channing Tatum as Leo, the film follows a couple dealing with a terrible accident.
Playing at the Galileo’s Kirstenbosch venue, this is a great flick for date night.
How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days – 16 April – Kirstenbosch Garden
Yet another great date flick, 2003’s How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days is one of those classic rom-coms that never gets old. Starring Kate Hudson as Andie, and Matthew McConaughey as Benjamin, the film sets up a fun and entertaining love story that makes for a great 2 hours.
The cosy atmosphere of the film and its representation of New York will really set the mood as you watch under the stars.
When Harry Met Sally… – 7 May – Kirstenbosch Garden
When it comes to date night films, When Harry Met Sally… is easily the biggest must-see that Galileo has to offer this Autumn season. The 1989 classic is considered one of the greatest rom-coms, with a 90% Rotten Tomatoes score.
The autumn vibes are on full display here, with the film’s setting of New York decked out in autumn foliage.
Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back – 4 May – Kirstenbosch Garden
This film is fun for the whole family, and a great way to celebrate Star Wars Day on May the fourth.
1980’s The Empire Strikes Back, the second released Star Wars film, is perfect from start to finish. While the Star Wars films are available on Disney+, there is no better way to spend the special day than surrounded by other fans watching what is often considered the best film in the franchise.
Rise of the Guardians (Special Easter Edition) – 3 April – Central Park, Century City
With Cape Town going into Autumn, the Easter season is upon us. While there are not many options when it comes to Easter films, Galileo has managed to find a great children’s film (with the Easter Bunny as a major character) that the entire family will enjoy.
2012’s Rise of the Guardians will screen on 3 April at Central Park, Century City.
Wonka (Special Easter Edition) – 5 April – Kirstenbosch Garden
With Easter, chocolate is a must, and Galileo is honouring the season with a screening of 2023’s Wonka.
Starring Timothée Chalamet in the titular role, the film follows the origin story of the iconic chocolate maker. This is a perfect children’s film from start to finish, with all the music, humour, and wonder that make for an entertaining flick that would be a great way to bring in the season on 5 April.
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Picture: The Galileo Open Air Cinema / Facebook
