First drive-in movie theater opens in Moscow

Moscow has opened its first American-style drive-in movie theatre. The moviegoers parked their cars outside the Crocus City Hall mall in the city's western suburbs for a screening of the 'My Spy' film, ahead of its premiere. Moscow's government plans to lift the coronavirus lockdown measures gradually over the month, with traditional movie theaters to open in July.

Moscow: Russia's capital opened its first American-style drive-in movie theater on Thursday night, becoming the first Moscow venue to screen a film after the coronavirus pandemic lockdown.

Dozens of curious moviegoers parked their cars outside the Crocus City Hall mall in the city's western suburbs for a screening of the 'My Spy' film, ahead of its premiere in Russia.

Many were delighted to finally be able to see a film on the big screen.

"I'm really happy with this format because it allows both for social distancing and at the same time a return to real life, which we've all been missing so much. I'm so tired of all these online events online fitness, online meetings, online everything," said actress Lorna Reznikova, who attended the screening perched atop a convertible.

Other moviegoers remarked on the novelty of the format for Russians.

"This is cool because it's a new thing here. Usually Americans like this thing (drive-in theatres). I don't know, we're about to see what it's like," said Nastya, who was attending with her two friends.

Moscow's government plans to lift the coronavirus lockdown measures gradually over the month, with traditional movie theaters to open in July.

The drive-in movie theatre at Crocus City Hall has a capacity for 100 cars, with tickets scanned upon entrance to the parking lot.

Movie snacks like popcorn and nachos are delivered to attendee's car window.

Other cities in Russia, including St. Petersburg and Kursk, are also reportedly set to open drive-in theatres this weekend.

(With inputs from AP)