Pico originated the idea of drive-in as well as taking responsibility for the overall design concept and venue production. As part of their effort, the team liaised with government authorities to gain the necessary approvals and permissions.

With ‘touchless’ being a key feature, all transactions were contactless and integrated into a mobile app developed by Mukta A2 Cinema. Tickets were sold via website on a per-car basis, with a maximum of four occupants per vehicle. Each ticket also included a food-and-beverage package, with orders delivered to cars by tricycle. Further COVID-safe arrangements included adequate spacing between cars.

The unprecedented nature of the project meant that sourcing the 21x9 metre cinema screen was a major task. The Pico team not only helped to procure this essential item from an American vendor, but also installed it with online assistance from the United States. The site as a whole was arranged so that the screen was obscured to all but ticket-paying patrons.

As built, the cinema’s design was endearingly retro, as manifested through such elements as signage, lighting, the screen façade and exit arch, and various boldly coloured structures. Adding to the cinematic experience was a programme of live pre-shows on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The 15-20 minute performances by musicians and comedians were accommodated on a special stage built on the site by the Pico team.