The last show at the old Columbia Drive-In included a triple-header: “Shrek,” “Spider-Man” and “Witness.”
Over the years, movie goers from at least two counties had fond recollections of going to the drive-in for a night of family fun.
In the early 1970s, Columbian Joyce (Pinkerton) Weinstock, along with her husband, Lou, owned and operated the Columbia Drive-In. Lou, a colorful character often challenged media censors with advertising for the movies he screened.
On Saturday night, outdoor movie-going returned to Columbia as a couple dozen folks cuddled on their lawn chairs and blankets to watch an outdoor screening of The NeverEnding Story, a 1984 film about “A troubled boy dives into a wonderous fantasy world through the pages of a mysterious book,” according to IMDB.
Outdoor movie showings are popular across the nation; in New Orleans, for instance, the New Orleans Film Society has an ongoing schedule of films and sponsors to pay for the outdoor productions.
There’s a company, Lehigh Valley – Reading Outdoor Movie Screen Rentals by FunFlicks®, that provides complete movie showing set up for organizations for $599.
“There are two primary film licensing agencies for the film studios. These film licensing companies do not represent all of the same studios. If the movie you select is not available at one licensing company, contact the other to see if the title is available through them. Some popular movies, such as Star Wars, have not been available for outdoor screenings in years at the request of the copyright holders.
“Here are the two film licensing companies that you should contact directly to secure the rights to show a movie at a public venue. The sales reps are very helpful about letting you know about the movies that are scheduled to be released on DVD right before your event.” – TwilightZone Cinema Services
Columbia news, views & reviews 
Thanks to the 80+ or so people who showed for last night’s movie. Had a great time and it was really nice seeing all of the kids that were there with their families. Hope this event keep on going. I know I enjoyed spending the evening with my granddaughter and her parents. I also realize that the usual naysayers of Columbia will comment that only 80 showed up, but if those 80 invite 1 friend to come next time, then it won’t take long for this event to blossom. Great POSITIVE newsworthy event from Columbia!
Kelly Murphy
While the rumors continue about who was the winner of the over 2 million dollar ticket that was sold at stovers news agency for the lottery the latest name I heard was Bobby G congrats. Good news travels fast even to us who do not live in the borough.
Casper
Poof