Reviews

It’s Only A Movie (Tour – Newcastle)

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5 November 2010

Northern Stage
Newcastle

A theatre critic reviewing a film critic on tour is an odd concept but It’s Only A Movie Tour is cinema critic Mark Kermode talking about aspects of his life. The show is really a promotional tour for his book It’s Only A Movie, copies of which he signs afterwards. Nevertheless, the evening works very well and with a running time of an hour (plus questions) the audience is left wanting more.

With only a table and a chair on stage Kermode takes us on a journey , covering how his love of movies turned in to his profession and his first radio broadcast happened by accident. There is plenty of humour in his storytelling, which includes attending the BAFTAS and being tackled head on by Helen Mirren over his comments of her hit movie The Queen.

Kermode’s relaxed, natural style allows him to communicate easily with the audience, which comes to the fore when answering questions. He does not shy away from any topic and makes his dislike of 3D very clear. Interestingly the packed audience agreed on opinions of the Spanish City in Whitley Bay as he recalled previous visits to the area .

This show will appeal to anyone who enjoys movies, not just those know Kermode’s work.