Northeast Ohio drive-in notches big week

Aut-O-Rama ranks among nation’s best drive-ins for box office

The drive-in theater might be in the midst of a comeback during the novel coronavirus pandemic, and one venue reaping those benefits is in Lorain County.

The Aut-O-Rama (33395 Lorain Road), a longtime twin drive-in located in North Ridgeville, just had a very successful week.

With some indoor cinemas open but not generating big box-office numbers, the majority of North America box-office receipts — according to multiple reports — came courtesy of drive-ins, which number at about 300 in North America.

Deadline reported 160 of the top 200 for box-office gross last week were drive-ins, and the Aut-O-Rama ranked among North America’s highest-grossing venues.

According to Deadline, AutO-Rama was fifth nationwide, bringing in $60,100 with showings that included fan favorite films “Jurassic Park” — which won the box office for the week in the United State — and “Jaws.”

“Jurassic Park” won the week with a take of $517,600, with “Jaws” just behind as it made $516,300.

According to the report, No. 1 among drive-ins was the Ford Wyoming Drive-in in Dearborn, Mich. ($127,300), followed by Cine-Drive in Saint Eustache, Quebec ($105,400), the Sacramento 6 ($71,200) and the Mission Tikki 4 in Montclair, Calif. ($61,800).

Ohio with 56 theaters (driveins and indoor combine) open reportedly ranks second in the United States to Texas’ 82.

The Aut-O-Rama was built in 1965 by the Sherman family, and became the first twin drivein in the Cleveland area during the 1972 season.

It was also the first to install AM radio sound.

The venue is open seven days a week through Labor Day. Starting June 26, Aut-O-Rama begins a Harry Potter movie marathon.

New drive-in policies are in place because of COVID-19 restrictions.

That includes buses and large groups not being permitted, or large gatherings with other vehicles. Outside food and beverage is temporarily allowed in the drive-in. Those who leave their vehicle are encouraged to wear a face covering.

Aut-O-Rama is also operating at a reduced capacity to comply with and encourage social distancing requirements.