This Friday is a great time to pack the picnic blanket and head to the banks of the Grand River for a double feature as a part of Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc.’s Movies in the Park.
And unlike in years’ past where you had to wait until sunset to begin the first film, thanks to new brighter screen technology provided by LiveSpace of Grand Rapids, this season’s double features can begin earlier so that you are not wandering home in the wee hours of the early Saturday morning.
What makes this lineup so delicious is not just supremely wonderful film choices. Rather, it is their fantastical tales that make this a standout in programming unlike any other.
For starters, at 7 p.m. the classic 1971 musical confectionary based thriller-comedy
“Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory,” based on the beloved Roald Dahl novel, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” tells the story of a child overcoming all odds to become a recipient of a much-desired golden ticket that will win him a private tour of the famed chocolate factory.
The brilliant choice to program the Spanish speaking language film
“Pan’s Labyrinth” alongside Wonka will erase any sugar high you might have from the syrupy opener as this dark modern fantasy directed by Mexican filmmaker Guillermo del Toro will have you cuddling in fear at times as the fantastical overlaps with reality in this Academy Award-nominated film.
Before the film presentation you will be entertained by host Gabriella de la Vega of the El Mundo Musical with special guest DJ Adrian Butler.
Food Trucks will be on site should you wish to nosh during the program and, as always with Movies in the Park, those 21 and older are free to bring in adult beverages.
This evening is brought to you by Franklin Partners with Star Partners including Linc Up and the Latino Community Coalition.
Movies in the Park is produced by Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. in partnership with The Rapid: Transit Authority for the Grand Rapids metro area, The City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Community Media Center, Tobacco Free Parks, and LiveSpace.