By Ronald Penh
The Gardena Cinema reopened their drive-in cinema on Thursday, March 4, after movie showings were cancelled in January in response to the spike in COVID-19 cases that caused ICU hospital beds to be at 0% in LA County.
The Gardena Cinema has been operating as a drive-thru cinema after the COVID-19 pandemic led to closures of entertainment venues such as movie theaters in LA County.
The movies they screened when they reopened include “Space Jam,” “The Matrix,” “Minions,” and the unrated version of “Ted.”
You can find out upcoming films that will be played by checking out their Facebook page “Gardena Cinema” or by visiting their page on Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.com/o/gardena-cinema-31976506589.
Ticket prices are $25 per vehicle.
Portable radios can also be rented out at the drive-in cinema for $5 in which an identification card is required. The radios can be picked up and returned at the box office.
The lobby remains open where restrooms are available and so that individuals can purchase snacks. The snacks offered include freshly popped popcorn, drinks, nachos, hot dogs, and candies.
Individuals can also bring their own snacks in their vehicles.
In the past, the Gardena Cinema drive-in has included Zoom interviews before showings from notable people such as “Jurassic Park” cinematographer Dean Cundey.
The Gardena Cinema was also featured in a music video from artist Iann Dior in his song “Holding On.” The music video was released on Youtube in November 2020.
The Gardena Cinema is the only single-screen stand-alone independent movie theater in South Los Angeles. The theater was built in 1946 and has been owned by the Kim family since 1976.
Gates open 45 minutes before the show time. Movies begin sharply at the scheduled time, so individuals are encouraged to arrive on time.
For those with questions or concerns, you can contact the Gardena Cinema at 310-217-0505. It is located at 14948 Crenshaw Blvd.
