Sentosa probably ranks highly amongst most Singaporeans when we’re looking for an idyllic getaway for some quick R&R. For those who frequent the tropical retreat, you’ll soon be able to add Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema to your list of new things to do at Sentosa.
From 25th April to 12th May 2024, this fleeting cinema’s bringing cosy movie nights to the pearly white sands of Tanjong Beach. Here’s all you need to know to plan for the perfect movie date.
Drawing parallels with the Jurong Drive-In Cinema of the ‘70s, Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema will transform a portion of Tanjong Beach into a grandiose, open-air cinema. Here, you can kick back and wind down your evening with movies that have graced prestigious film festivals such as Sundance Film Festival and Festival de Cannes, or the Cannes Film Festival.
Tickets start from $44.80, which comes bundled with a complimentary glass of Hendrick’s Gin Cocktail, deck chair seating, wireless earphones, and even shuttle service from the event to Harbourfront MRT.
The beach is also peppered with great photo spots to let your IG audience know you’re having a blast at Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema. There’s one near the cinema’s seating area beside an oversized bottle of Hendrick’s Gin, perfect for tipplers. There’s even a resident DJ dishing out funky summer tunes, so the vibe’s never dampened while you’re here.
We’ve not gotten any confirmations on the food sitch, but if last year’s edition of the event is anything to go by, they’ll be partnering up with Tanjong Beach Club to get that sorted. You’ll get to dabao Truffle Fries ($19) for your movies later, or double down and get a hearty Signature Tanjong Burger ($32) if you’re feeling especially peckish.
Back to the selection of films, you can look forward to cinematic masterpieces such as the French legal thriller Anatomy of a Fall, which clinched the Palme d’Or, or “Best Film” at the Cannes Film Festival.
If you’re seeking some light-hearted laughs, Taika Waititi’s Next Goal Wins is the one to catch. It follows the exploits of the American Samoa football team, one of the weakest national teams in the world as they try to turn things around before the World Cup Qualifiers with an unduly determined coach.
Other popular films you can choose from include Past Lives, a tearjerker which sees 2 childhood friends rekindling that initial spark after living different lives for years, but reuniting in The Big Apple. The fan-favourite Mission: Impossible Dead Reckoning Part One will also be showing, but catching it will be your own mission impossible as tickets have already sold out.
For those heading down on Labour Day, you get to sit in for Priscilla, a blockbuster directed by Sofia Coppola who’s previously helmed cult classics such as Lost in Translation.
For tickets and the full list of films, head to the Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema website.
Although the movies at Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema start at 7.45pm, you’ll want to come a little early to have a look-see around before you get too comfy in your seats. Head over to the cinema’s Ring for Refreshment booth to quench your thirst, or groove to the summer beats spun by the resident DJ.
Image credit: Hendrick’s Gin
Come in the appropriate beachwear as the seating arrangement for the cinema is situated in the sand. This means sandals and flip flops are ideal footwear to bring, and lather on some sunblock if you’re coming in the late afternoon to see what’s all the buzz about here.
Having an early dinner at VivoCity is also an option, if you don’t want to splurge on food at Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema as we all know how pricey it can get on Sentosa. Also, take note that there’s an admission fee for entry into Sentosa; rides on the monorail will cost you $4, while those driving in will have to pay at least $2 depending on the time of entry.
If your standard movie dates are getting a tad stale, then set aside some time next week and give Hendrick’s Sunset Cinema a shot. The curated reel of movies, coupled with a solid swig of G&T, and picturesque sunset views are sure to make for yet another exquisite evening at Sentosa.
For more things to do in Sentosa, the HydroDash’s one for thrill-seekers looking to make a splash, while Tanjong Rimau beach is a hidden enclave waiting for nature enthusiasts to uncover. Otherwise, read up on Fantasy Island and Volcanoland, both defunct attractions in the ‘90s that did not quite hold up as well as Universal Studios Singapore.
Cover image adapted from: Hendrick’s Gin
Last updated on 18th April 2024.
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