Livid Production's Presents Monty Python's Spamalot; Opening Night Review

Monty Python’s Spamalot Presented by Livid Productions

Thursday the 24th of March 2011
7:25pm Not many people when I arrive at Albury’s Entertainment Centre, a slight chill wind as the overcast sky rolls by- it will probably miss us. A few of the elderly art crowd are here, they are the most supportive members of the community theatre and come to see just about everything, but it does make me feel good. A couple of ladies recall their days of yore, with each pointing out where the stage door lies, and both recalling their dalliances. A few younger people arrive and are quick with their Python jokes…the film on which this latest show to hit Albury has been a popular one through the growing generations, and each has their own memories- seeing it in the theatre, whilst at a friend’s house, while drunk, at a theatre school. I wonder if the jokes will come off well, considering that the Python skits and the movie are so well known, is it nostalgia or would it be genuine laughs.

The program/poster combo for $2 was a good selling point, and somehow compensated for the lack of photos of the cast- but this is nothing new for Livid, who usually take the more minimalist approach, without losing the purpose of their program. Also of note was the handy salesman or was he a volunteer selling the program, who was more than willing to inform me of the specifics in the show- with about three family groupings involved in the show, hence pushing the community angle of the production, it was a good approach and I hope he continues to do that.

The stairway up the ramp led to a locked door however, it could lead to future problems, especially if the salesman previously mentioned has to continue to go over and press the button to let those who need to use the ramp in. I hope that this problem is rectified for the future shows.

The crowd hustles into the white glow of the theatre at about 7:40pm, in an otherwise dark and overcast QE2. Only the brave and I wait outside loving the juxtaposition of what the night outside seems to be heading towards, and the enlightening promise of the theatre.
We all ushered in when the wind picked up into the foyer, and discussion was ripe, an air of expectation- references to past Livid Shows, and someone having saw the show in Melbourne, others talking about friends in the show. I even caught up with some old friends, and met some of their friends, so already a positive. There were a few awkward anticipatory minutes while we waited for the clock to tick to 7:50pm, yes they were given the OK, and in we flowed.

David Todd the Director watched from the sound desk at the back of the theatre, noticing the various emotions on the people’s face. His usually stoic face had a shade of nervousness, would they like it? Would the show follow upon the success of Little Shop? He greeted a few family members of cast members, and some past members of Livid with a pleasant smile and nod, while keeping the professionally focus on the sound board.

The stage had red lighting and the castle looked foreboding, simple but effective. A few friends of the band approached them and waved and joked, wishing them well for the show, not professional, but that is not the purpose of community theatre, it is to bring together people and to show the community talent and skills from locals. It gives us a picture of the community behind Livid Productions.

The theatre was about a third full, mostly the centre section, and this caused me to be in the front row, a great place to be. I had thought that perhaps on the opening night that there should be a student rush or preview price just to get people into the show, and try to fill the theatre on the opening night, like the University theatre in Wagga does often, but I was met with the stuffy attitude of another patron who just thought that if everyone had just taken one or two people with them the theatre would be full- with no regards to others positions, oh how it would be nice to view situations with such a simplistic economic and social view.

ACT 1
From the beginning of the show it was evident that there was going to be problems with the sound system; with the announcement reverberating with microphone interference and volume needing to be adjusted quickly. I did think it a good gesture that Livid allowed the President of AWTC to do the mobile phone pre-show announcement, even with the sound problems. It was however that the sound system in the Entertainment Centre had not improved from Pirates last year.

The sound problems occurred a few more times, with the volume going too low on some of the softer voices, or during the middle of songs, thus the audience lost a little of the lyrics and jokes. Besides the sound problems it took the cast a little bit of time to ease into the show, however being opening night, they were probably still just getting out of rehearsal mode- and this is to be expected from the opening night audience.

What shone through the sound problems was the increased physicality of the show- the Livid team had taken upon the slapstick qualities of Python and the movement of a Broadway show in their stride. The dances were energetic and often times the whole stage were filled with people- sometimes they were not heard, but they were seen. The whole cast had reached their level of comfort by ‘The Knights of the Round Table’, and from then the cast started to shine.

ACT 2
The second act had some improvement with the sound; I did feel slightly cheated however that nobody on stage could be noticeably seen to whistle during ‘Always look on the Bright Side of Life’. I was seated next to friends of Fenn Dawson- a new face on the border theatre scene who did a fine job as Sir Lancelot- and they were often acting or waving trying to distract Mr Dawson, and at times from my position it was clear that he sometimes let his concentration slip, but this is nothing that a little more experience and focus could not clear, and he should be applauded for not losing character during their attempts.

Each cast member was going with the flow, and you could see their excitement, though one of the younger male members of the chorus had the same twisted expression on his face throughout the show- I was not sure if this was him keeping a character, or if he was in pain, but it was distracting. Perhaps this was also a lack of experience and he was nervous, but hopefully this will diminish after the opening night.

When the whole cast was up and going it flowed organically and the show was better for it, there were some timing issues, requiring the band and the cast to be more in time to be effective, but the audience found the miss-timing of some of these bits more funny, because we were reminded of the fact that this was a live show. Also of note should be that the whole cast did act very professional in regards to the sound problems, and kept in character and kept the show going- Steve admirably increasing his volume to accommodate on one occasion in particular.

Also there was an unexpected laugh when the audience got a preview to a visual joke before it was required, but they still went through with the scene with determination, and although a flicker of unexpected energy flashed across their faces- hinting it with a smile- the audience forgave them for it, and chuckles could be heard.

Specific Actors
The highlight of the show for me was Corey Cooper as Sir Robin, his physicality, voice and timing was great, and he took his songs and enacted them with a charm that brought the audience along with him. His face was very animated and it was obvious that he was enjoying the show and his character, and that brought us along with him.

Another performance that caught my eye was from David Keat as the Minstrel, and part of the chorus, who used his appearances to great effect getting the laughs flowing from the audience, and his physicality was engaging as well. He was unfortunately plagued with more sound problems than most, and this was a shame.
Speaking of a shame I did feel sorry for Michael Parker in his song ‘Not Dead Yet’, when he suddenly became inaudible however he kept going on, and he still managed to coax the audience to continue on with the show, and I hope that he will get the chance to bring the song to an audience.

Steve Armati was a strong presence who used good comic timing, and a firm understanding of theatrical technique, and often adapted to the different requirements needed. He was a delight during the whole Dennis sequence, and was visually enjoying his duet with Lauren Schmutter; ‘The Song that goes like this’. However during the big dances scenes it did appear as if he was thinking too hard and his actions were not quite what they could have been. I know that he will overcome this and only grow after the opening night hurdle.

Lauren Schmutter has a fine voice, and performed well in the role of the diva, Lady of the Lake, however she was probably the most hindered by the sound problems, and this was the feature that limited the effectiveness of her bits of the show. She was professional and used her tricks of the trade to improve the experience of the audience, and I know that she will only see this as something to overcome.

Fenn Dawson as Lancelot was well cast, considerably younger than the other leads, but he held his own and reminded me somewhat of the stage presence that Ben had as Seymour in Livid’s ‘Little Shop of Horrors’, which can only be a good thing. He had a grip over the stage and the audience, and we all delighted in Lancelot’s journey.

The Mother, Son partnership of Jason and Narelle Parker were a solid foundation for the show to build upon. As King Arthur and Patsy, the concern and connection between both actors was very strong, and carried the show during some of its slower periods. It did appear that Jason was a little less energetic when compared to his role as the Dentist in Little Shop, but this is easily explained away by the great differences in on stage time of each role, and the different character types.

Paul Hardbottle always makes himself known when he is on stage, and used his physicality and voice to great effect in his roles as Prince Herbert’s Father and the Head Knight who says Ni. It was a pleasure to see him getting back into the community theatre, and it appeared as if he enjoyed it as well.

AWTC President Joseph Thomsen was milking the laughs during his role as the French Taunter and I have to mention that he makes very good use of his face during the scene. I hope the success of AWTC Board members in this Livid Production will encourage future crossover.

Aaron Bykerk was expectantly successful in his role as Prince Herbert, and made the audience both uneasy and had laughs on the tip of their tongues. I especially love the Sondheim reference, that is more a feature of the show, but I enjoyed it and it added another layer to Herbert.

Colm Cox was a solid and effective performer and showed his maturity and professionalism in his various roles, and I once again have to tip my hat to him. I should also note Colm’s daughter was successful in her role as a keyboard player in the band, and I hope the success of the family groupings will encourage more families to get involved.
The chorus were all effective in their various roles and added much needed volume and spectacle during certain scenes, and they kept the visual jokes flowing throughout the show. The chorus had multiple costume changes and songs to remember and though not all of them got an individual moment, they are of course the necessary structure from which the show bounces off of. They should however fix the sound for them, at times I could not hear the female chorus at all, but they still sang their hearts out.

I should also mention the interaction with the band, it was a great joy to see the band becoming more involved with the show, with Bruce Cook providing some simple but effective acting from within the orchestra pit, whilst still keeping the music going. Speaking of the band, though some notes sounded a slight bit off, the music was the beating heart of the show, and the band showed their adaptability to the various musical styles featured in the show.

Also if you are in the audience stay on your toes because sometimes the actors interact with you, and one section in particular definitely made one man’s night, and gave the show a link to the community, which the whole production achieved.

So after the Gold Cup races head on down to Albury Entertainment Centre, because Monty Python, great songs, and a powerful and emotive cast and crew are willing to cheer you up from your losses, or make your racing wins seem much more fruitful. Didn’t go to the races? No matter, the show is still itching to make you smile and deliver the joys of good community theatre, and isn’t that what it is all really about? Don’t grumble, give a whistle- for Livid Production’s Spamalot.

Seen the show or in the show- leave a comment or send me a message at andrewdassher@hotmail.com

For those who don't know where to get tickets yet well here are some links for browsing;

http://www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au/www/html/196-event-details.asp?intEventID=1684

http://www.lividproductions.com.au/home/index.htm

or check out some of my previous posts on the subject.

Also Check out the mini interview of Director David Todd by News Weekly writer BLAIR THOMSON at http://www.awnw.com.au/a-knight-to-laugh-a-lot/

Spam update

Well hang in their folks, I am just putting the final touches on my review of Livid Productions' production of Spamalot- because I am in the library and being Gold Cup day there is only a limited amount of time...however here is something for those who need some info now;

- The show went off well considering it being opening night and assuming that this was the first time in front of a paid audience.

- There were still some technical problems, but nothing that the Entertainment Centre is not already known for, and the cast were totally professional in not letting the mishaps stop their performance- well done team!

- A few timing issues, and stage props issues, but nothing that did not work well or that the audience did not get a laugh at.

- The songs are strong and powerful, and when the whole cast is on stage it is quite engaging and entrancing.

- I am slightly disappointed I could not meet up with the cast afterwards- but most either have jobs or school the next morning- and just helps to highlight Livid's ability to draw great theatrical potential from the region- the fresh faces mixed quite well with the Livid regulars. I also did not get to catch up with the band, but well I got a free feed from some friends- free feed or wait in the cold for people who would probably have a party tonight or tomorrow- the weekend is the start of my week really.

- Book your seats- really the opportunity to engage in the hilarity of the show and the local cast is a treat, and would be a great ending for those finishing the races today. Giddy up, and head on down to the Entertainment Centre- and see a different kind of horse parade around on stage.

Looking forward to the full review.

Dale Stam

Spamalot nearly here, Spam, Spaming,

I have found that recently there has been a big increase in the number of people doing a search for Livid Production's upcoming production (redundant use of production there- that's 3) of Monty Python's Spamalot, which in itself was a stage production (4) adaptation of the film production (5)- Monty Python and the Holy Grail. However it brings in a variety of other references and songs from the Python production (6) catalogue, including the song that always gets people singing along- 'Always look on the bright side of life'.



Some of you are probably saying, I have not heard much from Dale about this production (7), and I mean it is just about here and what have you been doing with yourself Dale?! First off, calm down I have stuff to do, and second for better or worse I have heard very little about the show, they are keeping details close to their chest, but because I am awesome here are some little tidbits;



* The cast seems to be jelling together quite well, and have created a little community...- 'But that is what every community theatre production (8) creates?'- Well yes, but let me finish will

you;



- This show seems to be the cake that is starting to mend the fissure that had occurred between the two theatre groups with the cast being a mixture of both groups; and major discussions about auditions for AWTC.



Who would have thought that Monty Python would be the team to bring together two other teams, to create a production that will...'yes'...well the rest is a secret of the future.



* The sets, and the dances are set to be in line with Livid's usual theatricality.



* Laughter....I know that isn't really a secret, but hey once again close to chest.



I have kept my eyes and ears open, but Livid has decided not to use the possible marketing tool of my blog, and turned down my suggestion to do some behind the scenes of the show to build up the audience for it...but then we dear reader have to acknowledge that the majority of the readers of this blog are either already in the show, or were going to go anyway...so good financial decision, and hey the secrecy makes it more intriguing.



For those who don't know where to get tickets yet well here are some links for browsing;

http://www.alburycity.nsw.gov.au/www/html/196-event-details.asp?intEventID=1684

http://www.lividproductions.com.au/home/index.htm

or check out some of my previous posts on the subject.

The top one will also allow you to book in and pay for your tickets online...and are there still tickets available for the opening night- IE Tomorrow- well frankly yes...how do I know because I just purchased one, in aisle B seat 20, meaning that I am right near the stage, in the centre section, but still get the comfort of an aisle seat. I was also offered seats in the front row, centre so there is definitely seats, and good ones at that available.

For those who are sneaky or just plain awesome like me, you could even get in to see the production (I've forgotten where I am up to, 24601? Yeah that will do) 'bumping in', that is a technical term for when they bring all of their equipment from their secret lair- I mean rehearsal secret lair, and bring it to the stage, at this point the Albury Entertainment Centre, and then start to put it in, and let me just say, Livid does not disappoint, even with stage hands, and people moving stuff around, and others sitting or standing around (what, why aren't they helping- I don't know), you can still see the essence come through, as I believe Livid will to.

So stay tuned for a review!

Dale Stam

The Carbon Tax and what it means for you

(http://www.thepunch.com.au/articles/gillard-never-met-a-tax-she-didnt-like-and-hike/ )

As some of you will be witnessing today that Prime Minister- Julia Gillard is 'reneging' on an Election Promise to implement a Carbon Tax from July 1st. There of course will be allot of information in regards to this, and we will have differing points of view, this article will try to analyse these.

It has perhaps come at a bad time for Prime Minister Julia Gillard, with all the recent debate in regards to the Flood Tax Levey, and the need to reduce or close certain Government Subsidies to try to make the cost for people cheaper.

It is obvious for all those with bills that the cost of living is increasing, and taxes- just make it harder, but then taxes also pay for the maintenance of the road that we drive on, the parks we sleep in, and implement other strategies to aide Australians both domestic and abroad.

What is Carbon Tax?
This information was provided by http://climatelab.org/Carbon_tax

Carbon Tax is a tax that is placed on CO2 emissions, and is mostly focused on the CO2 emissions related to the burning of fossil fuels- the same burning that creates the majority of electricity in Australia, and currently China- thanks again for buying our minerals :)
(Australia Post-http://www.theaustralianpost.com/2010/03/andrew-forrest-again-number-one/)

We are all smiling like this bloke, unless you don't live in WA

By placing this on to emissions the Government is planning for the company to start to find alternative measures for bringing us energy- mainly green energy. There is at first a fundamental flaw to this at the moment;
A company wishes to make money and at the moment they have not been given an incentive- or better yet legislation to absorb the increased cost that this tax will bring, hence they will more than likely 'pass' the cost onto the consumer, ie you. So the cost of electricity and gas will go up as it has for the past few years, but then you just add some more.

The plan of the Government is also to increase the cost of this tax over the years, thus ensuring greater incentive for the company to change to green or sustainable energy production- but there is likely to be a barrier for a while, because the company can pass a fair portion of the tax onto the consumer.

Here is a diagram

OK lets assume that at the beginning we were in a situation at PE, QE, where the demand for the company's energy is in an equilibrium to the supply given by the company (this is of course simplified and ignoring those with solar energy buybacks, and the lost kilowatts), this means that the cost that we the consumer is willing to pay is being equaled out by the quantity of energy that the company gives us.

Now the Government implements the Carbon Tax, this thus increases the cost of production to the company, and they want to make back this money, moving the price to the consumer to Pc, while the price for the producer falls to PP, hence the consumer will pay the cost of production which is PP, and the added tax, thus Pc. At this point in time a consumer is likely to use less when cost is high, but a producer is likely to produce less when the consumer is paying a low price, hence the quantity will shift from Qe to Qt.

Because of the necessary use of energy in today's society this situation will need to create a new equilibrium, because at the moment at Pc, Qt, there will be a surplus, and that means wasted energy.

Expressed another way;
Shown by an increase in the price that consumers will pay. If we follow this on the y axis (the vertical axis) to Pc, then draw a line horizontally so it crosses both the dotted Demand line and the solid Supply line, we can easily observe that both demand and supply do not overlap here. Hence at the point in time the market will either have a decrease in quantity to Qt on the x axis (horizontal axis). Demand is still high, but if the company wishes to make the money back they might be enticed to reduce the supply, thus bringing a shortage to the market and hence people will pay more for the privilege to use it. This would then eventually create a different equilibrium

- Increase the cost to the company, and they will be likely to decrease supply so that they can then charge a higher price to the consumer- because there is now a higher demand for the product. We will now look at this situation with the following diagram;

At the beginning we are at the Equilibrium of PO, QO. Then the Company is now under the influence of the carbon tax, so they will have an increase in their costs, and the easiest way for the company to deal with this increase in cost is to pass it on to the consumer. Hence the new cost of P1 is formed,

1. The increase in cost is likely to turn people off from using the product and this will hence create a decrease in demand for the product, shown by moving left on the demand scale to its new position on P1, and the company will in turn create less of it, hence shifting the supply scale to the new scale of S1, which then creates a new market equilibrium of P1, Q1.

2. Then as the population grows and the lack of fossil fuels starts to occur there will be an increase in demand which will then increase the price to consumers again, and increase the quantity. Shown in the movement from the equilibrium of P1, Q1 to P2, Q2, which requires the shift in the demand curve to the right.

3. Perhaps the Government will show leniency and give low income earners a subsidy to aid with the supply of power, here is a graph showing the effect of a subsidy using the example or meals.

At the original equilibrium of P1, Q1 we realise that there are still a large range of people who could be getting energy (food) and but cannot afford it (those on the demand scale below the equilibrium point), hence with the introduction of a subsidy, the company will be forced to decrease the cost of their product by increasing supply- shown in the shift in supply to the right, and the new equilibrium of P2, Q2. The downside with this situation is that there is still the variance between P1 and P2, and this loss in income might eventually cause financial trouble for our power companies, even though the new equilibrium of P2, Q2 should now be economical for both producer and consumer.

Conclusion;

Overall there will be an increase in the cost to the consumer, and the Government is unlikely to give everyone a subsidy for power. Hence will mean higher costs, and because the fossil fuels, and electricity are now such fundamentals of our civilisation, there will be run off costs from other businesses and industries thus increasing the cost in nearly everything- like the GST, another controversial tax.

Questions- Would it then be us or the companies that are really taxed?

The tax is meant to be a burden upon companies, so as to encourage them to improve environmentally, but there will be run off.

* Will all forms of carbon emission be taxed?

The focus will be upon business and industry that are involved with the burning or fossil fuels, though there is a possibility that in the future the plastics and other petroleum products could have a similar fate- though probably at a smaller rate.

This is also possibly true for the agriculture industry. There might also be a related push for cleaner motor vehicles or face the possibility of tax.

Taken to its logical extreme, all people breath out carbon dioxide which in some way would add to the global warming issue (If you believe that; that debate is not the purpose of this article), but it is highly unlikely, and would cause a large outcry from civilians.

* Will the carbon tax create jobs?

This is debatable, Julia Gillard states that it will, these will most likely be in the following areas;

- Those who are called in to license new businesses with carbon tax policies, and the policy makers, and legislation. This in turn will call for an increase in lobbyists from various groups.

- Those who are encountered with the administration and enforcing of the carbon tax. Perhaps a new office or department in public service, and the conflictory business associations.

- Those who will be tasked with counting and then taxing businesses, and industry.

So there is the possibility of creating jobs yes, but it should be noted that any loss in profit for a business (as seen in the GFC) that it would also create the possibility of loss of jobs- this is also a point that the opposition to the tax are pushing.

* This all sounds rather negative why would Gillard risk her governance over this?

The timing of the announcement is unfortunate, with Australia, New Zealand and its allies recently undergoing many natural disasters and thus the need to act and place money into situations that will aid these people have taken the forefront, and have lead to debate on the flood levy tax for example. Australians and all nationalities do not like tax, it is a cost, and items are getting more expensive, however without an efficient tax system a lot of the items mentioned previously, among others would not be available. Sometimes there is waste, and some projects do not work, however the idea that everybody is charged some money to aid in the assistance of all Australians is a noble one.

The Government is trying to implement a strategy which they believe will be a future benefit, probably generations from now- when companies are using energy production that is not based on fossil fuels, and thus the aiding in the environmental problems. The concept of the carbon tax or emission trading schemes is has been around for a while and is in debate around the world.

They are working for a future benefit, similar to the experiment that was conduct where children where given the option of having on piece of candy now, or getting 10 pieces if they were to wait 10 minutes. Unfortunately a majority take short term pleasure over the possibility of greater rewards- hence there will always be more people who would prefer to keep the system as it is or with a slight better off for them- increase the economy, then bargain it on the long term possibility of environmental success. Yes, you read that right- a bargain.

There is concern that if we pass this law the following will happen;

- Loss in jobs and a decrease in the economic ability of Australia- yes we survived the GFC relatively well, but this would be self imposed.

- The possible environmental benefits would not really make a dent globally- unless we were able to protect Australia's air from all the other air in the world- so why should we, 'shoot ourselves in the foot'. This could follow from the 'problem of the commons'; which can be described as follows;

The problem of the commons arises when a group of individuals each acting in an independent and logical fashion will consciously engage in actions that will act in their best interest in regards to a finite resource (our environment), even when it is clear that the the long term ramifications of such an action will be detrimental to the group, and thus each individual.

Each country/region/person wishes to benefit themselves first- and this usually means an increase in income and prosperity- hence using resources, which can then destroy the land. Thus although everyone is acting as an individual, they are in effect all working as a group to in this case endanger the environment.

There are problems when this comes about because if we wish self interest it is hard to actively do something that is not in your immediate interests- hence it usually takes a person or body in authority to take such action- hence usually the Government. But the effectiveness of the current Government and their 'authority', especially when related to the tied election is debatable- and why debate has been a rampant fixture of most decisions made by them.

So in conclusion they are trying to make a lasting impact for better or worse, and hope that other countries will follow, and hence the ideology of the commons will be changed.

* Is Australia the only country that would engage in the carbon tax?

Other countries around the world have similar programs in place such as;

- Finland were the first to adopt the concept of the carbon tax in 1990.

- Sweden followed suit in 1991, with the result of a large increase in biofuel use, and is often the country cited with for an example.

- Netherlands had a fuel tax and now have a Regulatory Energy tax in 1996.

- UK produced a 'climate change levy' in 2001 that was used to fund energy efficiency and renewable energy activities.

- New Zealand has had discussion of a carbon tax from 2005, and a more recent emission trading scheme from 2007 has been on the tables.

- A few states in America have enacted their own carbon taxes or similar programs.

So if Australia were to enact their own carbon tax, they would not be alone in the world, with various models to choose from, and use as guidance.

(All facts for this section were gained from http://climatelab.org/Carbon_tax)

* Closing

There are costs to be accounted for in our future- and this Government; timing bad as it is, perhaps are moving forward. Yes they are reneging on a promise made, but is the possibility for further benefit to Australia and the world in the long run worth it? Possibly? Maybe not?

This article is not meant to give a definitive answer- it is meant to enlighten those who happen by.

Also it helps to have the Greens around to take some of the blame.

Leave what you think about the new tax, the Government, or even the article below.


Dale Stam

Carbon Tax worries perhaps you should look at the following;
Part One;
http://dalesnewsblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/carbon-tax-hyperbolic-worries-and.html

Part Two;
http://dalesnewsblog.blogspot.com/2011/11/carbon-tax-hyperbolic-worries-and_10.html

Are you Interested in Social Issues perhaps you will be interested in some of the following articles on this blog;

http://dalesnewsblog.blogspot.com/2010/11/obesity-article-1.html

http://dalesnewsblog.blogspot.com/2010/11/sociology-and-problems-group-report.html

http://dalesnewsblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/tripping-giant.html

http://dalesnewsblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/what-about-youth.html

5 Things that I hope Scream 4 did not do

Scream was the return to form for Wes Craven, and was probably the most popular horror film of the 1990's and in itself became a sort of pop culture phenomenon- with voice changes, and a large variety of the Ghostface costume avaiable. It took the popularity of Courtney Cox from Friends, playing a slightly more annoying version of Monica, and Neve Campbell still getting roles that people saw.

It was such a popular film that spawned a lot of copy cats and spoofery- when Scream in itself was considered a minor spoof of the genre. Scary movie, Shriek, and little nodds and winks throughout other culture avenues. It captured the feeling of the generation by bringing slasher horror back from the lull of the repeated sequels of the eighties.

With Scream 4 comming out this year, I thought I would make a wish list of what I hope this new expression of this generation of horror does not stoop to;

1. Have Ghostface engage in T.P
Saw, Hostel have bled (forgive the pun) this sub genre dry, and it does not feellike a good mix for the character of Ghostface- he is more like the slashers of old, and there are definitions and standards- basically he has an M.O, and to engage in these activities will not fit, and will be seen as an obvious ploy to accommodate in the trend that is already on the down hill slide.

2. Reboot
I know that by using the title Scream 4, they have already avoided the basic quality of the reboot, however there has been a feeling of the reboot of horror films recently that they are stylised, and the film looks good, but they are unneccessarily treading over the classsic story- with little nods to some of the key scenes from those films, instead of creating something entirely new- a new version, they seem to take the story of the original, change some of the outdated technology- will use cgi more than physical sfx and might add a few scenes to make it different.

Going from the rough trailer available it seems as though this film will be the start of a whole new trilogy (alert! Most of the recent reboots have not had sequals and if they do they are trying to explain the killer as in 'Texas Chainsaw: The Beginning', or take the series out of its comfort zone 'Halloween 2'- though I kind of liked this movie, I can see how it would be problematic for fans). Sidney, Dewey and Gale are all back, but it appears that the story will move on to focus on Emma Roberts character- a cousin to Sidney.

Plus we all still remember Scream- and its knock-offs, so a reboot will not give us anything new.

3. Use social networking well
Social networking has grown rapidly since the last Scream film and it will more than likely be making an appearance. However we have also seen recent movies where technology is used incorrectly, or as a tool to establish ok this is the distracted teenager- just like the walkman, cd player and ipod have been used- so that we the audience can go- oh teenager.

It would be interesting to see how Ghostface is able to implement elements of cyber stalking to get into a circle of friends, and then expand upon that with phonecalls- possibly picked up from someone's facebook profile?

It should not replace the phone, but It could be implemented well.

4. Do not be afraid to rid us of the cast from the past 3 films.
I enjoyed Scream 1-3, but looking back at them now, the character of Gale grates on me, and the relationship with Dewey is not going anywhere. Sidney is really just a combination of at times scared victim number 3, and Ripley...they were essential, but they are not what people remember most about the films- mostly the pre-credit kills, and Ghostface- including the voice.

5. Scream 4 needs to determine whether it will be a more serious horror film, or as a more light hearted nodd to the horror trend of the time.

Scream 3, I felt was too much comedy and self reference, where it ties the story back to the first film which we had seen spoofed before, and we had actors playing the characters, and then more actors playing actors who are playing those characters- wow depth.

Scream should follow a balance between the two, and not be too tempted to go down either role, as it did with the first film, and to a lesser extend scream 2. They were more of a self parody in scream 3. Even having a contribution cameo from Jay and Silent Bob - who I love in their own films, but it just started to raise the question of whether those characters were in the same universe as scream- or whether they were not....it just lead onto possible stories where I ask myself what would happen if Ghostface came into the Askewuniverse in a much bigger way.

Will these suggestions ruin the franchise- will killing Dewey and Gale, and Sidney ruin the franchise? How many more times can I say franchise?

Keep in mind, a new decade- a new set of rules- and that includes you film makers

Can they make Scream a scary movie again?

Leave your comments below.

Dale Stam

The Punisher.... for Kids

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punisher


Arguably a popular B-List Marvel Character, the Punisher (Frank Castle) has been a reminder of the gritty and dark character creations of the 1970s.

Although he is not one of the flagship characters, like Spider-man, Wolverine, Iron Man (more recent addition because of the success of the films), Captain America, Thor, Hulk, The Punisher has obtained a very strong core of fans, leading to many comics (some even under the 'adult only' banner of MAX), and three films.

That is right- 3 Films. Now Let us compare this to some of those flagship characters;
* Spider-Man has had up until this point in time- 3 live action feature films (I don't include the upcomming Sony reboot because well it hasn't been released yet.)
- However Spider-Man is probably the most popular character Marvel has; shown by the large pop-cultural impact the character has had; TV Shows (even a slightly weird live action one), comics, merchandise, spokesperson and video game character (to varying degrees of success).
- Spider-Man has had a major part to play in just about all of the major Marvel Cross Overs.
Especially in the Recent (recent means with the last few decades- comics, right?) House of M, Civil War, Marvel Zombies and probably in the up-comming Fear Itself.
- He was the headline act for the new Ultimate Comic Line- which tried to reintroduce characters anew.
- However there is one major problem with Spider-Man at the moment...the films rights are owned by Sony- this was before Marvel Started with their own live action content. This has therefore hindered the possibility for Spidey to appear in the larger Marvel Film Universe, and even delayed his appearance in the children's show Super Hero Squad (I think he is supposed to appear in the second series- so keep an eye out for your friendly neighbourhood spidey, Kiddies).

* Wolverine has been in 4 live action films; the X-men trilogy, and the out of left field Origins.
Supposedly another Wolverine film is in the works- but will feature supposedly his studies in Japan- and the accompaning Frank Miller Story.
- Wolverine is also usually appearing in any item of Marvels, whether as an adult aimed -best at what I do- dark character, or as he appears in the Super Hero Squad, as a more child friendly character with claws- actually from the few episodes I have seen of this show- Weird sleep pattern, leave me alone- the only character that even attempts to be similar in some way, shape or form of the main bunch (Iron Man, Wolvie, Silver Surfer (I know right- his exestential angst will please the kiddies, but nope), Thor, Falcon (Haven't seen him in a while), and Hulk is Hulk, because he mentions his name in sentences- Hulk angry with annoying childrens show! Argghhh!
Ahh!, Let go of that tank, arrgghhh!.
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- Sorry about that, I'm back again..ummm, but his films are owned by Fox, however the cartoon he is in his costume and not the black jumpsuit, so maybe it is easier to work around.


* Iron Man, at the moment 2 feature films, with another in the works, plus the Avengers, and if he makes appearances in Thor or Cap.

*Cap and Thor have one comming out this year each.

* Hulk has been bandied around a bit, but has had about 2 if you don't count the TV Show related movie.

So the Punisher a man who has a vendetta against crime, and is willing to use violent force ie guns, knives and explosives has in one alternative story killed the whole Marvel Universe, and has gone toe to toe with, you guessed it Archie, that Red haired kid who wanted to date both Betty, and Veronica....It is an interesting if unexpected read.

The point is, the Punisher is a character who is known to be an adult character, the movies featuring him are full of violence, he is gruff and often an outsider in the Marvel Universe. Basically I never thought I would see him relatively successfully transfered into a show like Super Hero Squad but the following movie proves me wrong, watch and enjoy;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-BD0nEg8h8




BRING ON GHOST RIDER AND DEADPOOL!

Bublers? Seriously have you been to school?

Bublers, a horror for most Australian citizens, and public schools across the globe. On our first day at school, it was such an exciting little contraption, it was like a fountain that you were allowed to drink out of, hence the street/school yard (hey it was near a street) name of 'fountain', because seriously did it not annoy you that you were always told not to drink from the fountain? Turns out your parents were right.

The human body has a high proportion of water, and you think that with our recent rain (I'm not going to go into the Victorian or Queensland floods, having successfully decided I wanted to live) that we would be able to keep our fountains going. But every single one that I have ever tried has sucked, not literally but figuratively, unless you consider not working well literal. The water pressure was terrible, forcing you to put your mouth close to the tap, and for many people this was too close. Some people made out with the tap, others decided to force smaller people to make out with the tap. Sure blood and mucus wash away, and it is left clean, that is why those people on all those cop shows never catch anybody...wait a second wasn't there that guy that...did they? No, wait...., that is not how body fluids work!

Also water is a notoriously good environment for bacteria and protozoa, and algae, but you knew all that, that is why people wash their hands....no people don't do that either... I'm sure there is a good thing about them. Think, think... aha in a movie this one time it caused a girl to bend over and...wait, didn't really need a bubler for that.

Also on a hot day, there was always some idiot who was trying to fill up his bottle from the slow ass bubler...yeah pal, recess isn't that long....move out of the way! Or the people who were actually sick trying to use the bubler...these are the same type of people that gave us chickenpox, and year after year bring us the common cold, and will eventually fulfil their purpose of bringing upon the zombie apocalypse because hey somebody had to be the first zombie. Mmmmm....

They tried on certain fountains to amend this by placing a small filter tap, that worked less well then the damn fountain, so not only am I getting a poor drink, but I have to watch awkwardly at some idiot filling up his 2L water bottle so he can play one game of octo.

In essence bublers are some the evils of public education, and no they do not get better when you go to university, but worse because now you know that at least one person has been to the microbiology lab...and I'm not to fond of that green mold.

Is bottled water the answer though, it does not come from the mountain or spring (really? You thought it did?), but mostly from the local water catchment area, usually with less strict health regulations that dictate the levels in our tap water. It also costs substantially more, and most of the bottle; add chemicals that encourage microbiological growth, cause harm, and are bad for the environment. Yay! Sounds good uncle bill.

Personally if people want to shell out money for the 'peace of mind' factor, let them be. But to take away that factor of our education, to separate the pretentious from the humble, the rich from the poor, University of Canberra who do you think you are?! Removal of bottled water to 'help the environment', and your replacement is bublers?! Seriously a bubler is out in the public, and people are idiots, we destroy and taint (figurative and literally) every public thing given to us. So it is a choice of the lesser of two evils?

Why not have the clubs each hand out cordial, or have somebody come and sterilise the bublers with some pure vodka- you might have an increase in drinkage after the sterilisation. Or have normal taps placed around, they poor better, fill bottles faster, and because of their relatedness to the ground less people will bend down to make out with it.

Hopefully I haven't turned you off of water, because remember folks- you need it to live.

Dale Stam