Gardens Cinema: Moonrise Kingdom
Gardens Cinema: Moonrise Kingdom
Thursday 14th August, 2025
This event will go ahead whatever the weather. TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE & NON-EXCHANGEABLE.
The film will start at around 9.00pm - exact start time is dependent on sunset time and light levels.
Ticket price includes entry to the gardens. Some paths and areas will be closed due to visitor safety during the evening.
We open the Gardens Cinema series with Wes Anderson’s beautifully crafted tale of young love and rebellion, Moonrise Kingdom.
Set on a windswept New England island in the summer of 1965, the story follows two lonely, eccentric 12-year-olds who make a secret pact to run away together. As the island’s adults (played by Bruce Willis, Frances McDormand and Bill Murray) scramble to find them, a storm brews overhead.
With its trademark meticulous style and dry humour, and a heartfelt look at growing up and breaking free, Moonrise Kingdom is one of Anderson’s most beloved films - funny, touching, and utterly unique.
Join us early to make the most of the evening before the film begins and explore the Gardens and Glasshouses before you settle in for the feature. Whatever Pays the Rent will be adding an immersive touch giving everyone the opportunity to earn their next scout badge at the band stand.
Presented in partnership with Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Whatever Pays the Rent and Mockingbird Cinema.
What to expect
Food
A hand-picked selection of local street food traders will be serving from 6:30pm each evening, with options rotating across the four-night series: Pizza from Smoke + Ash Hot dogs and loaded fries from The Original Currywurst Sweet treats, grab and go salads, sandwiches, and hot drinks from Medicine Bakery More to be announced…
Drinks
The Gardens Bar will be open throughout the night, serving: Craft beers and cider G&Ts, wine and summer cocktails Soft drinks and mocktails
Pre-show DJs
Get into the mood with a Wes Anderson-inspired DJ set.
Gardens Gifts Shop & Film Merch
The Gardens pop-up shop will be stocked with gifts, garden-ware and locally made items. Plus Mockingbird’s cinema-themed merch stall, featuring t-shirts, pin badges, and other cult film keepsakes.
FAQS
What should I bring with me?
Please bring your booking confirmation ticket with you for admission purposes. This can be shown on your mobile phone. All guests listed on your ticket must arrive together. We advise guests to bring a torch with them as areas of the gardens can be a little dark. We also advise sensible footwear to be worn and suitable clothing for the weather. Seating will not be provided so please bring picnic blankets and/or camping chairs. Tents are not allowed.
How do I get there?
Botanical Gardens is easily accessible by bus, tram (8 minute walk) or train (20 minute walk). We advise travel via public transport where possible, however there is a car park at the Botanical Gardens for those who are driving, which is available on a first come first served basis.
More information can be found on the Botanical Gardens website.
What time does it start?
Doors open at 6.30pm, with the film starting around 9.00pm (exact start time is dependent on sunset time and light levels). Before the film there will be music, food and drink and a chance to wander around the beautiful gardens (please note: some areas will not be accessible).
What time does it finish?
The event is expected to finish around 11pm.
What happens if it rains?
The event will go ahead whatever the weather. TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE & NON-EXCHANGEABLE.
Are pets allowed?
Only assistance animals are allowed access to the site.
Is it suitable for children?
This film is rated 12, meaning it is suitable for ages 12 and over.
Can I smoke at the event?
No. This site is strictly non-smoking and no vaping.
