Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce Congratulates U.P. Film Union on 10 Years of Movie Magic Under the Stars

MANISTIQUE, MI — July 2025 — Schoolcraft Tourism & Commerce (STC) is thrilled to

congratulate the U.P. Film Union on the celebration of their 10th season bringing free,

family-friendly drive-in movie nights to the community and beyond.

Founded by Don Erickson, Kevin Knaffla, and Eric Sherbinow, the U.P. Film Union has

turned the once-shuttered Cinema 2 Drive-In Theater into a thriving destination that now draws hundreds of cars and fans from across the Upper Peninsula and beyond. The

U.P. Film Union reopened under the new name, Highway 2 Community Drive-In Theater

in a nod to the mid-century aesthetic being created. What began as a one-night-only

screening quickly evolved into an annual tradition, with as many as six free events each

summer — including their now-iconic Fright Night in October.

“The U.P. Film Union has built something incredibly special,” said Victoria George, Executive Director of STC. “They’ve revived a piece of local history, supported dozens of nonprofits, and created unforgettable memories for thousands of families. Their story is a testament to what passion, creativity, and community spirit can accomplish.”

Over the past decade, the U.P. Film Union has hosted more than 40 movie nights and helped local nonprofits raise over $40,000 by allowing them to run the concession stand during events. From youth sports teams to service organizations, dozens of groups have benefited from these well-attended evenings under the stars.

“We never planned to do more than one movie night,” said Eric Sherbinow, one of the founding members. “But after that first night, with cars lined up down the highway and families cheering from lawn chairs, we knew we had tapped into something magical. We’re honored that people have embraced the drive-in and helped keep it going all

these years.”

In addition to their seasonal drive-in events, the U.P. Film Union hosts a monthly Film Club, which has quietly become a favorite among local movie buffs. Held inside the cozy concession stand during the off-season, Film Club offers a more intimate setting for film lovers to gather, watch a movie selected by attendees, and engage in lively post-film discussions. The films are curated using a set of quality criteria and span all genres, from drama to sci-fi, ensuring a thoughtful and diverse viewing experience. Each participant pays an entry fee of $10 per event, which helps support the U.P. Film Union’s mission by serving as a mini fundraiser. These funds contribute to providing free drive-in movie events across the Upper Peninsula. While the Club is currently on a brief summer break due to an expanded 10th season schedule, it will return this August.

As the U.P.’s only active drive-in theater, the Highway 2 Community Drive-In Theater has become a regional attraction and a symbol of local pride. Its efforts to maintain the historic venue, fund its operations through donations, and enhance the audience experience continue to inspire support from volunteers, sponsors, and movie lovers of all ages.

STC is proud to recognize the U.P. Film Union as a cultural gem in Schoolcraft County

and encourages everyone to support their mission by attending events, making a

donation, or volunteering their time.

For more information, upcoming showings, or to learn more about the Film Club, visit

www.upfilmunion.org or follow the U.P. Film Union on Facebook,

https://www.facebook.com/upfilmunion.