Right, I know Gareth did a little review on Facebook but he's probably forgotten that he should do one here too so i'll start off to remind him.
I really thought they did a good job. A lot more faithful to the film than I thought it was going to be, they included stuff from the Director's Cut as well as the Theatrical Edition.
The script wasn't a parody but more humorous elements were played up which helped carry the show along. I think a straight telling of the story would have left everyone just wanting to watch the film instead. The result was more everyone laughing along with an Amateur dramatic retelling rather than at it.
Given the budget for set and props they did a really good job. They weren't able to attempt the Derelict or Space Jockey properly* but handled them as best they could.
I was right at the back so can't be 100% sure but think the motion tracker prop looked like the Aliens one rather than Alien but frankly it didn't matter.
The Alien itself was really well done. The Chestbuster and Facehugger** scenes were worth the price of admission alone and the fight scene with Ash (which included a stunt double) was quite inventive too.
I was pleased to note that not only did they use music from the film before the show, but had a title sequence showing the Nostromo on screens that they had done themselves - when they could have just got a still image from the film. Music extended to the 'awakening' scene and there were a few other sound effects from the film used as well.
The performance was filmed so hopefully we'll all be able to get our hands on a copy. I know they interviewed Gareth before the show and I was filmed afterwards along with my friend so hopefully that'll turn up as part of a special feature.
*I know someone asked specifically about these on Facebook.
When discovering the derelict it was simply a gap in the stage curtains they could see through. Then they walked off stage for the Space Jockey - "Kane, can you see anything yet?" "Yes, I can" followed by the sound of Kane falling down. The curtains go back to reveal the eggs as Kane walks onstage.
Given the limited budget and limited time spent on the derelict set it was probably the best way to handle it.
**Some old school stage effects were involved in these parts and they were effective and well done.
_________________
-----------------
69th Regt. 1st Batt. Homer's Heroes
Register
FAQ
Search
Login
