THOSE keen to create a movie-like atmosphere in their homes can do so with a bit of help from Wallis Cinemas Mildura.
The cinema is cracking open its candy bar to the public for a few hours on Saturdays.
Wallis Cinemas Mildura manager Nick Nalder said the cinema was inspired by other regional operators who had started offering their customers access to the candy bar.
Although cinemas cannot function normally due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ability to have the candy bar open on Saturdays has given the Mildura cinema staff a sense of normality.
“We’re still keeping busy, which is good,” Mr Nalder said.
“It’s a good opportunity for a couple of staff to come in.”
Mr Nalder said opening on Saturdays for limited hours also kept the machines working.
“The popcorn machine has never been so empty,” he said.
Usually the popcorn machine is only switched off on Christmas Day.
In the meantime, cinema staff are looking forward to properly opening their doors to the public soon.
Mr Nalder said they hoped they could reopen by July, when the next wave of blockbusters will hit theatres.
“Of course if we are able to reopen earlier we’ll look at bringing back some classic films to show in the meantime,” he said.
Wallis Cinemas Mildura’s candy bar is open to the public on Saturdays from 1pm to 5pm.