Alien: On Stage

Nightstream Film Festival

The Alien franchise is one of my all time faves (except Alien Resurrection, that can burn for all eternity in a pit of hellfire and I’d not shed a single tear). I will greedily consume any content related to Ripley, Xenomorphs, and the extended universe. There’s no compare when it comes to evil space creature movies, and I consider it a pinnacle sci-fi series and a must watch for all Film enthusiasts. The special effects are outstanding. The creature design is iconic. The writing and character development are top tier. I’ve seen the prequels and the crossovers and I love it all! (Yes, even the less-than-thrilling “Prometheus” and related entries managed to have something enjoyable to my nerdy liking!)

I’m sure you can just imagine then my sheer delight and joy when I learned of a NJ school adapting it to stage and another homemade small adaptation in the UK as well! While I wasn’t able to attend either in person (the NJ one sold out, and the UK one well…obvs cost prohibitive haha!) so of course I was over the moon when I was given an opportunity to screen the documentary of the UK production. 

 Oh goodness me, “Alien Onstage” did not disappoint in the least. It is absolutely charming and I am utterly in love! In fact I really don’t think it’s possible to have a bad time whilst watching this, as the cast’s passion and enthusiasm are inescapably infectious. As a big nerd for the franchise myself, I was delighted to see such avid fans living out their best geeky dreams by recreating so many elements from the movie. This whole documentary is full of such joy and happiness, and everyone is so witty and chipper and creative. The cast and crew are so passionate, clever, witty, and creative. I’m so glad that their community rallied together and encouraged them to do what they love. Seeing these people just going for their dreams and wacky ideas when many of them had never remotely done anything like it was so joyful and heartwarming. They’re just living their best life, having a blast, and really isn’t that what life is all about?! It’s fairly short and sweet, emphasis on the sweet, and I would highly recommend this uplifting documentary to anyone looking for a little pick-me-up or those in need of inspiration to be brave and fearless enough to chase their passion. What’s keeping you from creating what you love? Remember to reach for the moon, enjoy the ride, and even if you miss, even if every moment isn’t perfect, you’ll end up amongst the stars! And remember no one can hear you scream anyway, so just let it all out, make what you love and who cares about the naysayers. Float on, and go forth and create!

(Now go interview the New Jersey school who did their own version and spin it, too! It could be a double feature!)

Review by Ellen Avigliano

Watched as part of Nightstream Film Festival.