Throwback: The Philippines’ First Float-In Cinema at Venice Grand Canal Mall

Back in 2020, when most of us were glued to Netflix and adjusting to lockdown life, Filipinos were introduced to one of the most creative cinema experiences yet. Instead of sitting in cars, theatres or on couches at home, moviegoers enjoyed films while riding gondolas at the Venice Grand Canal Mall in McKinley Hill, Taguig.

In December that year, Megaworld Cinemas launched the country’s first-ever float-in cinema, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about activities during the height of the pandemic.

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Cinemas in the new normal

With traditional cinemas closed for months, innovative concepts began to emerge. Drive-in theatres opened in Pampanga and Manila, offering safe ways to bring back the magic of the big screen. Megaworld’s float-in setup took it further, turning gondolas into cinema seats and creating an atmosphere that felt straight out of a romantic film. Screenings came with snacks, drinks and all the necessary safety measures, making the experience both safe and memorable.

The first feature shown was I Still Believe, screened on 5 December 2020, with tickets priced at around ₱500 per person. Guests received bottled water, snacks and hygiene kits while gondoliers steered them through the canal.

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Where it is now

The float-in cinema did not continue long after the pandemic, yet it remains one of the most unique ways Filipinos have ever watched a film. In the years that followed, Venice Grand Canal Mall shifted focus to cultural events, outdoor film festivals and live performances, but the gondola cinema lives on as an unforgettable memory of how we adapted entertainment during uncertain times.

Looking back

Five years later, the float-in cinema still stands out as a symbol of creativity and innovation. Although it was short-lived, it proved that movies will always find a way to bring people together, whether in theatres, cars or even boats.

Featured image credit: Megaworld Cinemas | Official Facebook Page