Murky future for drive-in movies:

Film buffs might be forced back to the theatre as dwindling crowds threaten to end drive-in movies at Manfeild.

The Feilding venue has hosted drivein movies for the past two summers, but declining audience counts are leading organisers to consider whether it’s time to stow the big screen.

It comes after Manfeild was forced to cancel a screening of Thor on December 16, citing low ticket sales.

But fans have one more chance to show their support.

Marketing manager Sarah Hughes said next weekend’s doubleheader may

be the last, depending on how many turnout to The Breakfast Club on March 9 and

Footloose, on March 10.

Hughes gauged what the community’s favourite films were through social media polling on Facebook.

The common theme was typically classic movies with popular appeal that had stood the test of time.

‘‘Though in the past we have been happy to take the risk, we are now at the point where we need to have a rethink.

‘‘There is obviously some cost associated. If it is not commercially viable then you have to take another look.’’

Manfeild entered the movie business in 2016 and started with a tripleheader screening on Labour Weekend that ‘‘went gang-busters’’.

Those screenings pulled bumper crowds over three nights, although the Feilding facility has struggled to replicate its early success.

They teamed up with Wellingtonbased film provider Firefly Cinemas and invited food trucks to cater for the crowds.

Hughes said there was a buzz about Manfeild for the first few showings – Mini owners from all over the region came to Goodbye Pork Pie and there was mass dancing in the carpark during one of the musicals

‘‘The nights were also celebrations that could not be easily recreated in a theatre or home lounge.’’