New York City, New York: 'In' Places to See Outdoor Movies

Willy Wonka Outdoor MovieSo, we've noticed that it's already mid-August. And we're not entirely happy about it. But if the end of summer is almost in sight, that's all the more reason to spend as much time outside as humanly possible. This week, therefore, we are avoiding any movie that will be shown in air-conditioned comfort. Fortunately, there are plenty of outdoor options to choose from. Friday, the Queens Museum of Art (www.queensmuseum.org) is screening "The Namesake," based on Jhumpa Lahiri's best-selling novel about an Indian-American family. Speaking of families, Manhattanites can check out "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," which is playing on Pier 46 at Charles St. (www.hudsonriverpark.org). SaturdayВ night at South Point Park on Roosevelt Island (www.rooftopfilms.com), you'll find "Song Sung Blue," a well-received documentary about, yes, a Neil Diamond tribute band. And since the title song is now bouncing around in your head, you might as well sign up online to enter their preshow karaoke contest. Bring the kids to O'Donohue Park in Queens (www.nycgovparks.org) for Sunday's feature, "Alvin and the Chipmunks," and head to Astoria Park (www.centralastoria.org) on Monday for "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix." Already seen that installment? You'll also find "Superman" playing Monday at Bryant Park (www.bryantpark.org). Tuesday's feature is "Working Girl," screening at Central Park's Rumsey Playfield (www.centralparknyc.org). And since you should always take advantage of an opportunity to watch "The French Connection's" car chase on a giant screen, plan on returning to Central Park on Wednesday. Wednesday also offers a lesser-known treat, but one well worth seeking out at the Socrates Sculpture Park in Long Island City (www.socratessculpturepark.org): Mexico's delightful indie "Duck Season," about teens left to their own devices for a day. And we'll wrap up the week on Thursday with Peter Sellers' Oscar-nominated turn in "Being There," down at the Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park (www.brooklynbridgepark.org). Schedules, tickets and directions for screenings can be found at each Web site. What do you want to see on the big screen? Let us know at eweitzman@nydailynews.com.

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