JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The world’s most famous female superhero may already be on the big screen, but starting Friday, January 8th, Northeast Florida movie buffs don’t even have to get out of their cars to see her in action. That’s because “Wonder Woman 84” is the first showing at Sun-Ray Cinema’s new permanent drive-in theater location at 859-869 Willow Branch Avenue. Sun-Ray Cinema’s co-owner, Shana David-Massett, could hardly contain her joy when she spoke to News4jax.
“It’s very exciting,” David-Massett said. “It’s about as exciting as it gets!”
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When the coronavirus pandemic hit, Sun-Ray started hosting drive-ins at a location in Nassau County. It also had one at a tailgating spot near the stadium. The new permanent location in Jacksonville means people can drive up, put their feet up, and take in the drive-in experience from years past. It definitely brings back a hint of nostalgia.
Not only is Sun-Ray playing host to Wonder Woman Friday night, it’s also giving people a chance to re-visit the gang from “The Goonies”. David-Massett says if the space on Willow Branch Avenue looks just like a big empty field, don’t worry, you’re in the right place.
“When you look it up on Google Maps and you say, ‘well that’s, uh, what’?” David-Massett said. “That’s because it’s a big empty field and we’re turning it into a drive-in movie theater!”
The lot features an outdoor auditorium, a 50-foot screen for your viewing pleasure, and a concession trailer. David-Massett says when you drive up, you’ll be greeted by the ticket taker and will receive directions on how to make sure you get the best seat in the house.
“If you’re in a big tall vehicle, we’ve got a spot for you,” David-Massett said. “If you’ve got a short vehicle, we’ve got a spot for you.”
Worry not, if you have a short vehicle, you won’t be placed behind a big vehicle. With the movie theater industry being hit hard by the pandemic, David-Massett looks forward to what this brings.
“Making sure that people have that great time watching films with their families and their friends,” David-Massett said. “And that we have a place that we’re really proud of in the city!”
Expanding Jacksonville’s cinema experience one superhero, and one quest for One-Eyed Willy’s treasure at a time. The “Wonder Woman 84” screening is Friday, January 8th, at 6:00 p.m. “The Goonies” starts at 9:00. Screenings are $20 a carload.
For tickets, visit Sun-Ray Cinema’s website.
