REVIEW: SECRET CINEMA Presents STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK
As the world waits with baited breath to judge the new Star Wars movie – will it be a sensation, or will it be abominable? – we can at least rest assured that the original films, with every viewing, get better and better.
It’s the bias toward such impeccably brilliant films, that all but demand multiple viewings, that lies at the root of the Secret Cinema movement’s success. From Alien to The Shawshank Redemption to The Grand Budapest Hotel, they’re all films with a highly unique look and feel, that have inspired a cult following.
This year, it’s the turn of Irvin Kershner’s Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back to get the immersive SC treatment, and the night we zipped off to a galaxy far, far away (precise location: classified), the enthrallment of fans all around us was plain to see.
The sheer volume of thought that’s gone into this experience is staggering: the interaction with actors and the cavernous, awe-inspiring sets make for true escapism (even if the extortionate food and drink prices bring you straight back to reality).
Forget X or Y reality show C-lister: I got genuinely nervous and giggly bumping into Chewie (who had bigger things on his mind than my coyness, being on the run from Stormtroopers).
That said, the highlight of my evening was when R2D2 approached me to say hello.
Or perhaps the true highlight was watching the film itself.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by a lively, vocal audience who recite every line of dialogue like it’s a competitive sport. Yes, this can occasionally be a little trying, but for the most part the energy is infectious.
Obviously, if you’re not overly keen on Star Wars in the first instance, you might find the almost five-hour running time and the uncomfortable seating during the screening somewhat painful. Indeed, we spotted more than a few less-than-amused other halves who had clearly been dragged along against their will.
Our only other grumble is the price tag, which, at £75, is undeniably hefty. It would be completely justifiable, however, if a little food and drink was included.
But if you’re a fan of the film in the first instance, we can promise you, it’s worth shelling out for. If you even remotely identify as a film-lover, it’s you’ll probably get something out of this one-of-a-kind experience. Go now.
SECRET CINEMA Presents STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK runs now until 27 September 2015. www.secretcinema.org/tickets
The post REVIEW: SECRET CINEMA Presents STAR WARS: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK appeared first on Gay Star News.
Jamie Tabberer
www.gaystarnews.com/article/review-secret-cinema-presents-star-wars-the-empire-strikes-back/
You Might Like