Films At The Fort is an open-air cinema event that combines award-winning films with gourmet food and wine.
We get so excited at this time of the year, as it means we’re getting closer and closer to one of our favourite events – Films At The Fort.
Presented by Casillero del Diablo wine, Films At The Fort is an open-air cinema event that combines award-winning films with gourmet food and wine. There are few better ways to relax in Singapore than with friends at this event, and it has gained a loyal following for a reason – it’s awesome. Gates open at 5pm, and audiences are encouraged to arrive early and soak in the pre-film ambience. Have a glass of wine (or three) as the sun sets and feast on the delish menu from The Providore’s on-site kitchen. Catch up with friends and relax as the DJ plays relaxed tropical tunes at dusk. Once you have totally unwound from your day, sit back and enjoy an award-winning film on Singapore’s largest outdoor screen. There really is nothing like watching a film under the stars.
Films At The Fort has curated another outstanding film programme this year, including award-winning new releases, documentaries and classics – we’re talking major accolades at film festivals like Cannes and Sundance – as well as feel good old-school classics that would cure even the worst case of Sunday night blues.
One of the best aspects of Films At The Fort is the food. Sometimes, outdoor events struggle with this – but not Films At The Fort. The Providore has an on-site kitchen serving freshly prepared delish offerings, including everything from cheese and charcuterie share platters to more substantial meals like grass-fed beef burgers, parma ham pizzas and organic quinoa salads. Feel like something sweet during the film? How about a Pat & Stick’s “world famous” ice cream sandwich or a decadent valrhona chocolate brownie (they’re epic)?
The biggest issue you might face with this event is deciding which film to choose – they are all so good. Honestly, you could not pick a bad film from this list, but you might miss out if you are not quick – tickets sell out each year. But if you really do have a severe case of decidophobia, we’ve cherry-picked five films that caught our eye..
Me and Earl and the Dying Girl
The lives of two socially awkward indie filmmakers are changed forever when they serendipitously get acquainted with a schoolmate suffering from leukaemia. It’s both inspirational and bittersweet, and the transformations captured in the plot are compelling – a meek protagonist being nudged out of his shell, and a forlorn love interest(?) whose despair turns into hope. Tissues? Yeah, you’ll need a lot.
Thu, 11 August
The Nice Guys
In this unlikely team-up, brooding Hollywood bad boy, Russell Crowe, rubs shoulders with puppy-eyed dreamboat, Ryan Gosling, in this noir-styled comedy. Crime in 1970s Los Angeles brings these two together as a private eye and hired enforcer respectively, and together, they solve a spiralling mystery with mind-boggling twists and turns. This is worth watching alone just for their on-screen (and possibly swoon-worthy) chemistry.
Fri, 12 August
The Wolfpack
We’ve heard of telly obsession (we’re guilty of it sometimes), but this film really takes this to a whole ’nother – almost terrifyingly psychotic – level. The Wolfpack follows a bunch of brothers who were imprisoned by their parents in their New York apartment for 14 years, with movies as their only connection to the outside world. Watch what happens once they’re finally set free. And the most insane part about all of this? This is based on a true story!
Mon, 15 August
Mon Roi
Marriage is certainly not a walk in the park, especially if you’re Georgio and Tony. A fiery, volatile romance portrayed by Vincent Cassel and Emmanuelle Bercot respectively – the latter winning Best Actress at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival – this relationship tackles themes of trust, anguish, and love in all its frenetic permutations. Does true love really exist? You may have second thoughts after watching this emotional roller coaster by acclaimed director, Maïwenn.
Friday, 19 August
Forrest Gump
However, if you’re simply looking for a memorable classic without having to prod your friends asking what just happened, this tour de force by Tom Hanks can do no wrong. The tale of this iconic protagonist is far-fetched as it is fascinating, and over 20 years later, still tugs at our heartstrings. The message behind this film is as impeccable as Tom Hanks’ Oscar-winning performance. And you can be sure that everyone will be waiting to yell that one famous line – “Run, Forrest! Run!”.
Sat, 20 August
Films At The Fort, 11-21 August 2016, doors open at 5pm while films start at 7.30pm, Fort Canning Green (Fort Canning Park). For more information on full show schedule and prices, visit this website.
This article is sponsored by Films At The Fort.