In a world of polished superhero films and hundreds of documentaries about serial killers, it’s nice to take a break and see an unironic film void of modern cynicism. Alien On Stage is just that, sincere entertainment. What’s it about, you say? AOS is a documentary about a group of small town (Dorset) English bus drivers who ban together to put on a stage production on Ridley Scott’s seminal sci-fi classic, Alien. Remember Rushmore? It’s like one of Max’s plays, but without Herman Blume’s budget. Or for another comparison, if Waiting for Guffman‘s Corky St. Claire put on a production of Alien.
Except, this is real. Fiction can do a nice approximation of the guerilla arts, but nothing is quite the same as seeing the real thing. In the real world, DIY theater productions involves works schedules coordinating, stage fright, venue space that is neglected, and lots of cardboard and duct tape. There is a real air of hopelessness too. How is it possible to bring so many wild cards together? Will they laugh at us? Will we embarrass ourselves? And the reality is, yes you will. However, you will create something that transcends good or bad. You will create community.
Early in the film, we learn this is not the troops first foray into the live arts. The troupe had done a production of Costner’s Robin Hood adapted into a Christmas Musical the previous year, which went over well. However, their production of Alien, was shaky from the start. Props are not coming along. No one remembers their lines. Every rehearsal results in sinking dread. The show isn’t looking like it’s going to work. But alas, they put on the show… and only 20 people show up. It’s devastating. The second showing goes over the same. Except, some filmmakers (Harvey and Kummer) have come down from London when they heard of the community taking a stab at the beloved film. And those filmmakers have an idea…
Which leads us to this documentary being reviewed. This also leads to something arguably bigger– A chance to perform in London on a world renowned theater stage! The film chronicles the days leading up to the show, and the climax being the raucous performance itself. This is a smart move by directors Harvey and Kummer, as we the audience are allowed to experience Alien On Stage with attendees.
And by the end of the performance, which includes fine ad libs, rubber wigglies on fishing lines, audience participation (whether planned or not), you will be won over. Alien On Stage is a worthy companion piece to original film. Hell, I like it better than the last two.
Alien On Stage was screened digitally at the 2021 Fantasia Film Fest
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