(Hollywood Forever Cemetery sign on Santa Monica Blvd.)
Overall, it was a great night! Neither of us knew what to expect going into it. The film was projected on to the side of a building, and seating is all on grassy areas that are free of graves (or so I would assume...since there were definitely areas cordoned off that had gravestones in them, so nobody would sit on the graves). We arrived around 7:45, or so, having parked about half a mile away (in Larchmont Village). Parking is notoriously bad around the cemetery on screening nights, so we just parked further away and walked, instead of circling forever or paying at the lot in the cemetery.
(The walk into the cemetery!)
We brought some food and blankets, both of which came in handy! Lots of people bring alcohol, too, if that's your thing! :) I would recommend arriving earlier than we did--when I drove past at 5pm, people were already lined up, even though the gates don't open until 7:30. By the time we made it through the looooooooooong line to get in and walked through the cemetery to the screening area, most of the best seating was taken. We ended up sitting near the back of the permissable area, so we had to deal with a lot of people walking in front of us--kind of a pain--but we did have a clear view of the screen, so that's good! The film started at 9pm, and we were lucky that it never got cold--it was humid tonight, but not chilly, although we both ended up putting on the hoodies that we brought with! :)
(Screenshot...it was changing as I took the photo!)
The screening itself was very clear, even from far away. The sound is decent, maybe a bit of an echo because of the large space? There are distractions to deal with, in the form of the occasional helicopter, noisy people sitting around you, and folks walking in front of your view, but overall, I really enjoyed the evening!! I would recommend the screenings to groups of friends, dates, etc. I actually ran into a pair of friends, who are married, who were on a date night. :) I did see some children, but I don't think it's the best environment for kids--there's nowhere for them to really play, seating is crowded on the ground, and they might easily lose interest in the movie. Also, most of the screening options are really more for adult audiences. I did not go in search of the bathrooms, so I can't speak to the facilities or where they are located. That being said, there are plenty of trash cans around to help keep the sitting areas clean, and guides to help you stick to the right paths, etc. Tickets are $10 at the gate, cash only. I don't think dogs are allowed, even though I did see a woman with a shih tzu (which didn't make a peep all night).
(Brian's afraid I'll take his yummy sandwich, which was the Pulled Short Rib Sandwich from The Larchmont Larder--ps, they will pack picnic dinners for things like the Cinespia screenings and events at the Hollywood Bowl!)
Suggestions on what to bring: blankets to sit on, pillows, extra low beach chairs (the kind that are just a few inches off the ground), possibly bug spray, extra jackets/blankets in case it gets cold, plenty of food and drinks, good walking shoes, cash for tickets/parking.
On our walk back to the car, Brian indulged me in letting me stop for an Astroburger--a great, cheap, simple burger in LA. Tastes like a burger you'd grill at home (sort of a smoky flavor, wide patty, large sesame bun, simple American cheese), but mostly reminds me of the burgers at Portillo's, which is a Chicago institution (and there is a location in Orange County...still have to trek down there to have some!). There are various locations of Astroburger in LA--this one is right on the corner of Gower and Melrose (5001 Melrose Avenue), across the street from Paramount Studios.
I had a cheeseburger for less than $4 and was totally happy! :) Great place for a cheap, fast meal in LA! They also have vegetarian burgers (according to the sign).
(Astroburger...mmm...)
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