The Truth About Walmart's New Drive-In Movies

Of all the things gone by the wayside as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a night out at the movies might be one we miss the most. While there's no lack of binge-worthy shows and movies to watch on TV at home, nothing quite measures up to the big screen. Plus, sometimes, we just need a night out of the house. Fortunately, Walmart is offering the chance to see some classic, family-favorite movies on the big screen from the socially-distant safety of your car with their new Walmart Drive-In experience.

Walmart announced on their website they'd be teaming up with Tribeca Enterprises this August to transform select Walmart parking lots into a drive-in movie experience for communities around the country. Walmart's Chief Customer Officer, Janey Whiteside said, "Summer hasn't really felt like summer yet, and I know I hear every day, 'Mom, I'm bored!'" Whiteside said Walmart plays a role in the community that extends beyond providing necessary supplies, and they hope to bring a little fun to families across the country this summer. 

Walmart's touring, pop-up drive-in event will run from August 14 through October 21 in 160 Walmart locations across the country. Tickets are free, but you have to sign up for them in advance by visiting the Walmart Drive-In website. It's worth noting many locations are already sold out. The films that will be shown have been curated by the Tribeca Film Festival and, chances are, you've already seen a few. But, they're all worth watching again. For younger generations, Walmart's Drive-in can be a chance to see timeless classics on the big screen for the first time.

According to Deseret News, he lineup includes inspiring sports stories like Friday Night Lights, The Karate Kid, and Space Jam, animated features like Cars, The Iron Giant, The Lego Movie, and Madagascar, and some blockbuster franchises including Black Panther, Pokémon Detective Pikachu, The Lego Batman Movie, Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse, and Wonder Woman. Of course, the drive-in will deliver a healthy dose of nostalgia, too, with Back to the Future, Beetlejuice, The Goonies, The Wizard of Oz, and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (via Walmart). Even better, Walmart is rounding out the experience with some fun surprises.

Walmart drive-in attendees will not only get their fill of big-screen entertainment, but can also expect virtual or real-life visits from celebrities like Drew Barrymore, LeBron James, Jennifer Garner, and Chrissy Metz according to Entertainment Weekly. Barrymore will serve as the virtual host for all events. Prior to the start of each movie, guests will also be treated to one of several short films including Bilby, Bird Karma, Brooklyn Breeze, CROW: The Legend, Fire in Cardboard City, INVASION!, Looney Tunes' Boo! Appetweet, and Marooned.

Walmart says the drive-in is intended to be a fun, contact-free experience to be enjoyed from the safety of your own vehicle. Masks are required outside your vehicle and, since the drive-in is a family-friendly event, no alcohol is allowed. Walmart says you can stock up on concessions through their pickup or delivery services before you go. Movies are only half as fun without snacks, right? A little time off the couch and a safe night out with family could do us all some good. Bring on the popcorn, and get ready for the show!