I like holidays

April 7, 2008

We spent the first weekend of our holidays ensconced in culture. Well, maybe not ensconced and I might be stretching the definition of culture too, but we got out and saw stuff- which is important. So here is my mini review of our kulcharal weekend.

Friday 4/4- One Man Star Wars We went to the Cremorne for this show, opening night in Brisbane for Charles Ross, who really does an amazing show. Our friends brought their kiddies and we were a little concerned that it might be a bit “adult” for them- but no fear. I was expecting it to be a prop comedy show, but instead Ross distilled the three epic films that changed my life (an most of the other people in the room by my guessing) into little over an house, using nothing more than mime and wearing no more than black overalls. I think the fact that most of the audience ‘got’ what he was doing is testament to the power of these films and well has his obvious talent.

Sat 5/4 Grindhouse. After a lovely dinner with Kate (who is taking off to Greece much too soon)- we did something we’ve been waiting over a year for. The big studio promised us the Grindhouse double feature over Easter last year- instead we have waited months for it to be released (on DVD- such sacrilege). Luckily the Dendy got a hold of a print from the US and showed the full package this week. We decided to go for the 9.30 screening, because it was the closest we could get to midnight- which would have been excellent. If you were looking for an art film, you would be greatly disappointed- but if you know the trash and exploitation genre these guys were celebrating, then you would love it. Planet Terror rocked my socks. I found Death Proof a little too ‘Tarrentino-esque’ for my liking- there were too many nods to his writing style, instead of staying true to the genre. That said- the stunts and the chicks were fantastic. I was also a little thrilled to see a cameo from a couple of TXRD girls

Sunday 6/4 Andy Warhol Exhibit- GOMA We finally got to the exhibition before it closed- which was my greatest concern. I’m glad we went- but really I could have spent all day just with the film exhibits. Actually, I think that should have been in the promo stuff for the gallery, so those of use who don’t mind watching long amounts of one thing could spend more time. I was impressed by the range of depth of the artwork that was there- but felt the ephemera for personal things really bought too much into the cult of personality that tends to go with his work. I was impressed with the collection, but really loved the kids guide and activities too, most of all the balloon room- so we got a group shot.