Desert Drive-In: Best Movies To Watch Under the Stars
When the vast expanse of the desert calls and the stars twinkle like diamonds, there's an unparalleled romance to experiencing movies in the open air. The perfect backdrop of open skies, cool breezes, and the ambiance of the desert creates an immersive cinematic experience. Here, we bring you the ultimate list of movies that elevate the charm of a desert drive-in, ensuring your outdoor screening is truly magical. From gripping thrillers to timeless classics, here's a collection that promises an unforgettable night under the stars.
Palm Springs
When carefree Nyles and reluctant maid of honor Sarah have a chance encounter at a Palm Springs wedding, things get complicated when they find themselves unable to escape the venue, themselves, or each other. Available for viewing here, this 2020 film invites viewers into a looping, surreal romance that's as entertaining as it is thought-provoking.
Don't Worry Darling
Alice and Jack are lucky to be living in the idealized community of Victory, an experimental company town housing men who work for the top-secret Victory Project. However, when cracks in their idyllic life begin to appear, Alice questions what is truly happening. This 2022 release can be found here, offering a thrilling dive into suspense and mystery under the starry skies.
Ingrid Goes West
Ingrid becomes obsessed with a social network star named Taylor Sloane who seemingly has a perfect life. Ingrid's decision to move west to be closer to Taylor spirals into a dangerous obsession. Available for streaming here, this 2017 dark comedy perfectly marries humor and unease, ideal for a night under the quiet desert sky.
Mad Max: Fury Road
Set in a post-apocalyptic world within a stark desert landscape, "Mad Max: Fury Road" follows two rebels on the run who might just restore order. This high-octane 2015 film is available here, and its gripping visuals and relentless pace make it a stellar choice for a desert drive-in viewing.
Dune
Paul Atreides, destined for greatness, must journey to the universe's most dangerous planet to secure his family's and people's future. The film, accessible here, captivates with its epic scale and stunning visuals, making it a fitting choice for an immersive desert cinematic experience.
Asteroid City
Set in an American desert town during 1955, "Asteroid City" takes viewers on a journey disrupted by extraordinary events. Watch it here, and let this quirky and visually striking film enhance your starry night viewing.
Holes
Wrongfully convicted, a boy is sent to a desert detention camp where he digs holes, uncovering buried secrets and treasures. This timeless adventure film, available here, combines mystery with heartfelt storytelling, making it perfect for a family-friendly desert drive-in night.
No Country for Old Men
When Llewelyn Moss stumbles upon dead bodies, $2 million, and a hoard of heroin, a deadly chase ensues with killer Anton Chigurh and Sheriff Ed Tom Bell in pursuit. This gripping 2007 thriller, accessible here, blends intense suspense with stunning desert landscapes, perfect for a captivating night under the stars.
Sahara
A young cobra and his scorpion friend embark on a perilous journey across the Sahara to save a new-found love. This 2017 animated film, available here, provides a colorful and adventurous tale that’s enjoyable for viewers of all ages in an open desert setting.
High Desert
Following her mother's death, Peggy Newman decides to become a private investigator in the small desert town of Yucca Valley, California. This recent 2023 film, available here, showcases a gripping narrative filled with twists and turns, perfect for a starry desert movie night.
As the night unfolds, the stars come alive, and the chill of the desert sets in, each of these films offers a unique escape and an immersive storytelling experience ideal for a desert drive-in. Grab your popcorn, cozy up with a blanket, and let the magic of these movies create unforgettable memories under the vast, open sky.
