Remember when going to the movies was a go-to choice for a fun, casual outing with friends and family? Now, with ticket prices skyrocketing and theaters that seem to be filled with unwanted remakes and sequels, going to the movies is not quite as appealing as it used to be. Not to fret; the Enzian Theater, a local arthouse cinema that has been screening since 1985, is making cinema feel like it did with their “Popcorn Flicks in the Park” series. On the second Thursday of every month, the Enzian shows a free, family-friendly film in Winter Park’s very own Central Park, making movie-going a realistic and enjoyable weeknight activity for people of all ages.
When I first heard about Popcorn Flicks, I was most compelled by the “Free screening—no ticket required!” notice on their website. It seemed a bit too good to be true in a world where just about everything costs an arm and a leg. I wanted to find out more about how these events are made possible, so I sat down with Tim Anderson, the programming manager for the Enzian, to get a better insight into Popcorn Flicks.
Anderson said, “Enzian is always trying to operate with the lowest possible cost margin for ticketing.” This means that since going to see films at the Enzian is affordable, the establishment relies on the support of the community. “Only 25% of Enzian’s money comes from ticket sales. The rest is [from] donors and grants,” said Anderson. Financial and public support comes from organizations like the Fiat Film campaign at Rollins, which posts flyers around campus to garner awareness. Not only is the Enzian providing economical entertainment, but the close-knit community it resides in is uplifting them to do even more. Anderson said, “We try to do as much stuff for free as possible.” Whether it is Popcorn Flicks or similarly family-oriented events like the Peanut Butter Matinees or Kid Fest (both are free for children under 12), there is a poignant focus on making movie-going obtainable for people of all ages.
In an era dominated by at-home streaming with access to any film you desire, movie night might be accessible from the couch in your living room—but there seems to be something special about experiencing cinema on the big screen with other people around to enjoy it too. I reached out to the Rollins Film Club to fully understand what makes going to see a movie so different from watching one at home.
Joelle Jackson (‘28), a member of the Rollins Film Club and self-proclaimed Fantastic Mr. Fox enthusiast, said, “Just to have everybody gasping at the same time, laughing at the same time, it’s an experience you don’t get when you’re watching a movie by yourself.” Fellow club member and aspiring filmmaker, Carlos Eduardo Rangel Bejarano (‘29), said “Art is such a deeply shared experience.” The beauty of the collective viewing experience is just another reason why Popcorn Flicks is so special. It allows people to gather in the park as a family or with friends and enjoy the perks of in-person movie watching without being forced to spend the big bucks. Additionally, Popcorn Flicks are ADA compliant with subtitles featured at every screening, something that isn’t always offered at big-box theaters. Anderson himself even said, “When you’re in a group […] it makes scary movies scarier, funny movies funnier. I’ve always said that going to the movies can make mediocre movies better.” This experience should not be limited to those who can afford it—everyone deserves to enjoy movies with their community, which is why Popcorn Flicks is such an important event that has something for everyone.
Beyond the constant concessions and ambiance, the movies that are picked are either seasonal, like the upcoming showing of Monster House on Oct. 8 or the Christmas films shown during the annual Winter on the Avenue Christmas tree lighting. “Sometimes it’ll be like, ‘man, it’d be really cool to play this movie’ and we’ll just play it,” said Anderson. It is as simple as that, and what makes local arthouse cinema so sacred: playing films you know your community will love thanks to the programming freedom that is not often found at big-box theaters. Anderson could not have said it better himself: “Being able to program with the kind of generalized understanding of what people are currently into or what people in the town are into, that’s what a community arthouse can do better than any place else. That’s really the key.”
Popcorn Flicks has been supported by the community for over a decade. It offers locals a chance to immerse themselves in a wholesome film while spending quality time with their family and friends while also enjoying the charm and pleasantry of downtown Winter Park. Thanks to the city’s support, the attendees, and the hardworking staff at the Enzian, this event is an outlet for anyone to get out of the house and simply enjoy movies the way they used to, with no fees required. Popcorn Flicks are so much more than just movies in the park; they are a testament to the goodwill of local arthouses and the bond of such a close-knit community.
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