For every action there is a reaction.
This one line sums up the underlining message of Ben Elton’s Popcorn – a satirical examination of Hollywood’s use of sex, drugs and violence to sell films.
This adaptation pulls few punches in the depiction of its Frankenstein-esque confrontation between an auteur and the monsters he is blamed for creating. This blame culture that exists throughout the show is an uncomfortable reflection of society today.
The main character, Bruce Delamitri, draws many similarities with Quentin Tarantino. He is a nonconformist director whose controversial, violent work, ”Ordinary Americans” wins him an Oscar. Like Taratino, he is accosted for his use of violence, which culminates in the confrontation by the Maul Murderers, a Mickey and Mallory inspired couple that the media blame him for creating.
One of the most interesting points in the play is the continual buck-passing, where neither the Maul Murderers or Delamitri are prepared to take responsibility for their actions. The altercation culminates in a live debate on National TV, with the ultimate conclusion being left to the viewing public and whether or not they can bare to turn off their televisions.
The cast and direction n the production are superb, with a constructive use of lighting, music and slow motion giving the performance an even more Hollywood feel. Popcorn Leaves you wondering where the boundary between about the distinction between TV violence and real life lies, and whether the media can be blamed for influencing copycat violence.
4/5
Forbes Lukins
