Melbourne Zoo announces 2022 Summer Cinema program

For a unique and exotic location to watch a movie you can’t go past the Melbourne Zoo.

Throughout February and March, the Zoo Summer Cinema program will be screening a program of new release films from critically acclaimed cult directors, including Paul Thomas Anderson’s Licorice Pizza and Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch, alternating with classic movies such as 10 Things I Hate About You and Jurassic Park.

The Zoo’s popular twilight calendar of events has been on hold in recent summers due to the COVID restrictions.

Melbourne Zoo director, Michelle Bruggeman, said the program is a great chance for people to socialise and see the Zoo in a new light while supporting the important work of its Marine Response Unit.

“Our Summer Cinema program is the perfect reason to visit the Zoo with friends and loved ones, see some animals and see a great movie,” Ms Bruggeman said.

Friends and families are encouraged to arrive early, grab a place on the lawns and bring their own picnic or snack and drinks.

For those who prefer the option of someone else taking care of the food the movie sessions are being catered by Melbourne artisans Baketico and renowned Melbourne chef Raymond Capaldi. Food hampers can be pre-ordered or head to the food precinct to choose a meal from the food truck. The bar will be open for a chilled wine or a beer.

While waiting for the movie to start audiences can relax and be entertained by DJs spinning tracks and listen to talks delivered by some of the Zoo’s keepers.

The Zoo grounds open at 5.30pm and the movies screen at 8pm.

The program will run every Thursday to Saturday from February 3 to March 12.

Ticket sales will go towards supporting the work of Melbourne Zoo’s Marine Response Unit with its work to rescue injured marine wildlife, including seals and seabirds in Victoria. Last year, the MRU recorded its biggest ever year, responding to 918 cases over 12 months.

All ticketholders 18 years and over are required to provide proof of full vaccination and follow current Victorian Government directions at coronavirus.vic.gov.au •

For the full program and to purchase tickets go to zoo.org.au/zoo-summer-cinema