Mar 14

FRINGE 2015 – 17th Over the Fence Comedy Film Festival – Palace Nova Cinemas – 4.5K

By Olivia Henry

Sit down and be prepared to take a ride through the imaginations of 12 of the world’s best independent filmmakers.

Although there is no set subject, it is said that entrants often seem to follow similar trends. This year, all films follow the theme of “love, angst and other deceptions.”

Following the screenings, the audience is able to vote for their favourite film through a ballot. With so many like-minded individuals attending, the Festival is a wonderful chance to meet people who are passionate about film. Alternatively, for those who aren’t producers, this event is an excellent opportunity to support local and international up-and-coming filmmakers while also being thoroughly entertained.

It is a wonderful experience to see a variety of films that don’t conform to the usual Hollywood Blockbuster style. With so many different films, it is likely that every attendee will find something that appeals to their sense of humour.

 

The films:

Makeover is an Australian film featuring an elderly widower who gives himself a drastic makeover prior to his blind date. It features both amusing and cringeworthy moments that will leave you giggling.

The Puerto Rican film, Acrophobia, is a short and whimsical film that follows a man dealing with a recurring nightmare. To his surprise, the remedy does not quite treat the problem the way he had hoped.

5 Ways 2 Die is a clever film from Cyprus that features a man exploring different paths to death. The uniquely dark sense of humour will leave you with a cheeky grin.

The Smelliest Poo in the World is a hilarious silent film from the UK. “Inspired by a true story,” this film features an almost sophisticated toilet humour that turns into Monty Python-style slapstick.

Young Heart is an adorable Australian documentary-style film that follows an elderly man who received a heart transplant.

The third Australian film, Stop Leak, features a young man who finds himself in a laughably awkward situation while meeting his girlfriend’s parents for the first time.

The French/Spanish film Voice Over is an incredibly immersive experience. It is easy to forget the real world as the narrator carries the viewer on a surreal journey through a series of extreme situations.

Forget Me Not is a light-hearted film from the UK that highlights the difficulties couples face when one of them cannot remember they are in a relationship. This film is extremely well-written, as it presents 9 minutes of dialogue in an interesting, funny and effortless way.

The US/South Korean film, Oh Baby… Baby?, tells the uncomfortable story of an infertile man who seeks help from his close friend of 20 years.

November is a German film of spiritual reflection that features a very interesting choice of protagonist.

Scincerity is a short yet hilarious Spanish film in which a son must break some very disappointing news to his parents.

Love at First Sight is a beautiful love story from the UK. The cinematography and soundtrack make for a heartwarming story.

 

17th Over The Fence Comedy Film Festival is highly recommended for enthusiastic filmmakers and audiences alike.

For tickets, click here.

 

4.5K

Mar 13

FRINGE 2015: La Soirée – Garden of Unearthly Delights: Aurora Spiegeltent – 5K

The beauty of a variety show is that with the combination of acts, you will never get bored. One performance flows into the next and each provides its own flavour of entertainment. It’s possible that not every act will be to the taste of every audience member, but wait five minutes and the next one might. Having said this, it’s doubtful that many people will find much not to like about La Soirée.

The performers assembled for this run are the cream of the international crop and are simply a delight to watch from start to finish. Their skills in acrobatics, clowning, puppetry, contortion, juggling, apparatus work and comedy, combine to create an evening of entertainment that is, quite simply, beautiful.

The essential element that makes La Soirée work so well is the humour. While each act excel in their particular field, providing jaw dropping shows of physical and technical skill, they also exude a sense of playfulness and fun. It is the cheeky irreverence to the extraordinary feats they are performing that make them extra enjoyable. It’s impossible not to smile the whole way through – even when simultaneously gasping or cringing.

While experiencing the captivating surprise of this show for the first time can’t be matched, the quality of the performances are such that it deserves repeat viewings, and will no doubt impress every time.

Kryztoff Rating: 5K

Mar 13

Fringe 2015 – BAZINGA! Nerdlesque Nights – Nexus Cabaret – 4.5K

By Tom Eckert

From the outset it is apparent that sex clearly sells. The venue, not small by any means was packed; with some of the unfortunately late punters relegated standing room by the back of the bar. Bazinga! Is the perfect example of a show finding its niche. Everyone in the room was clearly pumped to be there and there were copious amounts of alternative culture references and thick framed glasses.

Humour is the bedrock of this show and there is a special feeling that you can only get when a sub-culture reference is made, and the entire room laughs its head off, that makes you feel instantly comfortable and at home. And who knew there was so much phallic imagery in a chemistry set.

Run to the pace of a stellar soundtrack and its even more stellar performers, the combination of top notch routines, strong stage presence, audience interaction and a self irreverent humour creates the unusual sensation of a world touring act with the endearing charm of a show put on by some of the local thespian types.

This is a delightful show and it’s no wonder it continues year after year to sell out. The energy, characters and costumes are fantastic. If you were the outcast in high school for your leanings towards cartoons, science fiction and video games, Bazinga! is the, ironically, good clean spirited fun night you’ll enjoy every minute of.

Kryztoff rating: 4.5K

Mar 12

Fringe 2015: I Liked You Better Online – Bakehouse Theatre – 3.5K

The pretentious persona to pick up a potential partner is definitely the theme. I Liked You Better Online is the tale of the romance over technology. It is an absolute comedy that takes the show and the characters we play online to enhance our-not-very-interesting-selves.

Emerging from the darkness with great enthusiasm, Luke McMahon who played Steve greeted the audience with the consistent energy that he portrayed throughout the performance. Chloe, played by Lara Schwedt matched that, but also added this girl next door charm that suited the character very well.

The show had a captivating flow that sets it apart from others, with scenes that are reminiscent to sitcoms. The music score can be improved, but is still very appropriate. They have made use of the performance area in quite an amusing way that will give you a feel of you are in the scenes.

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The show revolves around this technological wonder, Tinder, so if you don’t have a generic concept of what this mobile application is about, it is best to do your research beforehand as just to be able to relate a little bit better. Everyone seems to be familiar with it, or maybe they use it in a daily basis. But worry not; they’ll give you a crash course if you haven’t got time.

They have entertained since the 9th, and it will end on the 14th of March at Bakehouse Theatre in Angas Street, Adelaide. Definitely something that will make you think that some things can be better online.

 

Kryztoff Rating: 3.5K

Mar 08

Fringe 2015: Acts of Absurdity – Royal Croquet Club – Ukiyo – 2K

As the name says, very much a series of absurd acts, sprinkled with a few highlights which are quite entertaining moments thanks to some skilful acts and humorous clownery. But sadly left at the end realising the reason for the late time slot.

At the Royal Croquet Club – Ukiyo until Saturday 14 March.

Rated 18+

http://www.adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/acts-of-absurdity/b4160453-7eaf-49eb-92b7-f8bc54c40ddd

http://www.varietyville.com/THEATRE-SHOWS/ACTS-OF-ABSURDITY.html

Kryztoff Rating   2K

Mar 08

Fringe 2015: Glitches in Reality – Gluttony – The Bally – 4K

Inspired by M.C. Escher’s two dimensional drawings of impossible three dimensional objects, Simon Coronel brings his one man performance, Glitches in Reality. Exploring the illusion of what appears to be impossible in reality. We all know reality is that these illusions are performed by sleight of hand, deception and misdirection, in this case done with great showmanship which allows the audience to loose themselves in believing in magic for a few moments. Mesmerized by Simon’s expert delivery of amazing close up illusions, able to be amazed by the impossible.

At Gluttony – The Bally until Sunday 15 March.

http://www.adelaidefringe.com.au/fringetix/glitches-in-reality/66c6203c-2572-4c04-8c39-3f0c487d7f63

Kryztoff Rating  4K

Mar 07

FRINGE 2015 – Tinder Surprise – Goodwood Institute – 4K

Tinder Surprise is a local stage production at the Goodwood Institute. With a simple yet versatile set, characters Mike and Fiona journey through the dangers and disasters of Tinder dates.

While it was a little slow to get started, the show was generally well-written and had a number of memorable, quotable moments. The show improved as it progressed and redeemed itself by the end, as it left the audience in stitches.

As this show is produced, written and directed by a group of friends from a local acting class, each of the supporting characters had quirks and charms that would not be present if played by less experienced performers. Be sure to keep an eye on the waiter, played by Theodore Girgolas, who captured the audience’s attention with his well-timed reactions and mannerisms.

Funny, relatable and charming, this show is thoroughly enjoyable overall and excellent value for the ticket price.

For show times and tickets, click here

4K

Mar 06

Fringe 2015 – Little Egypt’s Speakeasy – The Deluxe – The Garden of Unearthly Delights – 4K

By Tom Eckert

LESE

Walking into The Deluxe, turned Little Egypt’s Speakeasy club and finding a booth is stepping straight back into the 1950s. A six piece band, a handful of characters and brilliant baritone MC who speaks in rhyme and all dressed to the nines.

At the heart of this show it is a pleasant evening of music from another time taken to the next level of immersion by the delightful characterisation of all involved down to the musicians.

You’ll meet the cantankerous manager and his two brothers and not least of all the delightful namesake of the club, Little Egypt herself. This early morning of foot tapping is neatly tied together with a quaint little real time narrative of corporate necessity versus the artistic and emotional inner lives, for those of you who have seen the films; you’ll know what wins out in the end accompanied by a big ol’ finale number.

For a pleasant night out and a pleasing aesthetic and a bit of fun, swing past Little Egypt’s Speakeasy and swing the night away.

 

Kryztoff Rating: 4K

Mar 06

Fringe 2015 – George Glass Presents: Money Shot! – Channel 9 Kevin Crease Studios – 2k

By Tom Eckert

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Money Shot! is an original production by George Glass examining the inherent absurdity of the story of the creation of internet porn.

This company continues to produce insightful musical comedy that cuts to the quick of whatsoever they choose to examine. This is the strength of this production; the writing is solid as were the technical elements.

However, at times the show feels like it is a bit big than the three of them can manage. Some of the changes are clunky and the dialogue can lean a bit towards monotone. I do appreciate the minimalistic style which offsets the extremities of the content nicely, however it can occasionally result in a drop in energy which makes it feel like you’re just watching three guys talk.

Overall a sound production; great script but sometimes limited by performership. I do however expect good things in the future.

Kryztoff Rating: 2k

Mar 06

FRINGE 2015 – A Show From Nothing – Bluebee Room – 3K

By Peter Maddern

The premise of this improv show is that the two male actors on stage start with only the basics and then make up the rest, drawing it all together at the end of 60 minutes – hence the name of the show. On opening night, we started with a clapped out Spanish dance teacher and an oldie who likes stitching things. Where it all finished may require a spoiler alert but it is fair to say it was a long way from there as the various stories weaved their way together including the players switching roles along the way.

The Scriptease team have certainly set themselves an ambitious target and while the ensuing hour was engrossing, it somehow felt more like watching a chess game than theatre and a long way, as it proved on this night at least, from the comedy section of the Fringe Guide.

And possibly this is where the issue with A Show From Nothing’s entertainment value rests. Rather than feeling spoken to, the audience would be forgiven for just seeing two men going at each other in an intense battle of wits; somehow more of each’s internal emotions as they sparred with the other on twists and turns of plot would have helped. Moving from behind the two chairs – the only props in the show – and sharing more of the stage’s space with the punters would have aided too.

Still, this was opening night and no doubt both actors would have been delighted the hour ended with both still standing rhetorically and metaphorically. As the season progresses, no doubt too they will both be able to relax and project more than verbalise between themselves.

Anyway, none of this is to derogate from the strength of imagination and daring shown in both the concept and performance of this show and as traditional Fringe fare it is well worth the visit.

Kryztoff Rating 3K