Nearly four decades after the series kicked off in 1976, The National Bank of Indianapolis Summer Nights Film Series continues to offer one of Indy’s most unique outdoor film experiences, set against a backdrop of art, nature and a starry sky.
The first installment of what has become an Indianapolis traditional originally featured “Golden Films of the Thirties,” with Frank Capra, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers films and a preshow dance competition. Today, the series offers a diverse lineup of films ranging from zombie flicks to classic musicals, along with interactive programming before each show.
In honor of the series‘ 40th season, the public was invited to vote on the final four films with a “Movie Madness” bracket challenge. Throughout the month of March, visitors to the IMA website narrowed 64 contenders down to four winners in four different categories— Classic, Cult, Suspense/Thriller and ‘80s.
“This series isn’t just about great films, it’s about the experience of watching films outdoors, with a picnic, with your friends and family,” said Scott Stulen, curator of audience experiences and performance at the IMA. “Last summer, the sold-out season added on to some of the thematic pregame activities of past seasons, including live DJs, trivia contests, treasure hunts and even an ‘80s dance party. This summer, we are upping the preshow programming and bringing more interactive elements to enhance your film experience, including a Zombie Night, Ballpark Night and Christmas in July, along with four films selected by the public. We are excited to offer another packed summer of outdoor cinema entertainment at the IMA.”
This summer’s series kicks off June 5 and will run through Aug. 28. The lineup includes:
June 5: National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983, dir. Harold Ramis, 98 mins., R)
Jam to road trip mixtapes, play tourism attraction trivia and watch a crowd-sourced slideshow of awkward summer vacation photos (and don’t forget to share your own!)
June 12: Heathers (1988, dir. Michael Lehmann, 103 mins., R)
Step back in time with an ‘80s Night celebration! Dress up in Heather’s-inspired attire, pose for a glamour shot and rock out to ‘80’s music. You can even win special prizes if your name is Heather! Presented in conjunction with the LGBT Film Festival.
June 19: Casablanca (1942, dir. Michael Curtiz, 102 mins., PG)
Test your knowledge of classic films with a trivia contest, and then face off with your best Bogart impression.
June 26: Psycho (1960, dir. Alfred Hitchcock, 109 mins., R)
Play Hitchcock trivia and snap a selfie in the Psycho-inspired photo booth.
July 3: Jaws (1975, dir. Steven Spielberg, 124 mins., PG)
Kick off Fourth of July weekend with Shark Night at the IMA. Lounge in inflatable pools, play with beach toys and participate in various shark related games. Presented in partnership with Indy Film Fest.
July 10: Flash Gordon (1980, dir. Mike Hodges, 111 mins., PG)
It’s Superhero Night! Dress up as your favorite superhero and compete to win prizes by showing off your superpowers.
July 17: Shaun of the Dead (2004, dir. Edgar Wright, 99 mins., R)
Zombify yourself and enjoy a record throwing contest, zombie movie trivia and other undead activities.
July 24: Elf (2003, dir. Jon Favreau, 97 mins., PG)
Celebrate Christmas in July with presents, carols, plenty of sugar and lots of cheer.
July 31: Major League (1989, dir. David S. Ward, 107 mins., R)
Make your own baseball card, unleash your fastball in the pitching booth and play baseball trivia.
The final month of films were picked by the public as part of the Movie Madness bracket challenge.
Winner of Classic category
Aug. 7: Singin’ in the Rain (1952, dir. Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly, 103 mins., NR)
Enjoy a live musical performance and join in a giant sing-a-long prior to the show.
Winner of Cult category
Aug. 14: The Big Lebowski (1998, dirs. Joel and Ethan Coen, 117 mins., R)
Show off your bowling skills while being a “Dude for the Day.”
Winner of Thriller/Suspense category
Aug. 21: The Shining (1980, dir. Stanley Kubrick, 146 mins., R)
Show off your best ax-happy Nicholson impression in the “Here’s Johnny!” photo booth.
Winner of ‘80s category
Aug. 28: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986, dir. John Hughes, 103 mins., PG-13)
Participate in a Pointillism staring contest, lip sync to Danke Schoen and celebrate a piece of Chicago in Indy.
Tickets and Pricing
Tickets are $6 for IMA members and $12 for the public, unless otherwise noted, and are available for purchase in advance at the Guest Services Desk, online or by phone at 317-955-2339. Tickets are also available at the door, but are not guaranteed, as some films may sell out before the day of showing. Member tickets are now on sale, and tickets for the general public will be available beginning May 4. All tickets are non-refundable. Show your National Bank of Indianapolis ATM, debit or credit card for $1 off your ticket purchase.
