The Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace will host a one-night celebration of one of Australia’s most infamous films, giving locals a rare chance to experience Chopper on the big screen with a live performance before the movie begins.
A Cult Classic Returns to the Big Screen
The event will take place on Friday, 22 August, from 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the historic Cremorne cinema. Tickets start from $35 and include a complimentary beer or cider on arrival.
Andrew Dominik directed the 2000 film Chopper, starring Eric Bana, and many regard it as a standout in Australian cinema for its dark humour and raw depiction of criminal Mark “Chopper” Read.
Comedy Meets Crime Drama
This anniversary screening marks 25 years since its release, offering audiences a chance to revisit the film in a setting that matches its significance. Before the screening, comedian Heath Franklin will appear in character as “Chopper” for a preshow performance.
Heath Franklin’s sharp comedic take on the notorious figure has become a popular part of Australian comedy, providing a light-hearted counterpoint to the film’s gritty tone.
A Community Cinema Experience
The Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace, a restored Art Deco venue, is a fixture in the Lower North Shore’s arts scene. Its special events often draw a mix of film enthusiasts, locals, and visitors, reinforcing the cinema’s role as a community gathering place.
Hosting the Chopper anniversary fits the venue’s tradition of blending classic film screenings with live entertainment.
Booking and Event Details
The anniversary event is rated R18+ due to the film’s content. As a one-night-only screening with limited seating, early booking is recommended through the Orpheum’s website.
The complimentary drink and preshow help make the night more than a film screening, it’s a shared cultural experience for the community.
Published 11-August-2025
