When The Silver Moon Was A Drive In - Illegally Showing Movies on Sundays

The article titled “When The Silver Moon Was A Drive In - Illegally Showing Movies on Sundays” caught my attention and took me on a time travel journey back to the 1950s, when drive-in cinemas were flourishing in the United States. However, these drive-ins were not without controversy because of a law that prohibited the screening of films on Sundays, which they were openly disregarding.

According to the article, the drive-in cinemas were primarily established to avoid paying rentals for indoor theaters, and the momentum heightened as more drive-ins were established. Yet, with the law in place prohibiting the screening of films on Sundays, the cinemas had to resort to subterfuge to maintain profits. They would disguise their screens, so they could not be seen from the highways, and the patrons would park their cars facing away from the roads, to avoid suspicion.

Witness accounts attest that the drive-ins were social hubs where families and singles would come together to enjoy the movies, atmosphere, and each other’s company. People even found love in these drive-ins, a testament to their importance in the social fabric of the time.

Sadly, some of these drive-ins went out of business due to factors such as noise constraints, parking challenges, and a decline in interest with the advent of more traditional indoor cinemas.

However, this article reminds us of how these drive-in cinemas were more than just a place to catch a movie. They were a cultural phenomenon and a defining aspect of American entertainment for several decades. As we continue to navigate the world of cinema and entertainment, it’s vital to acknowledge and appreciate the historical significance of these drive-ins and the memories they created.