adelaide fringe theatre review: just like the movies

I do understand that the goal of most Adelaide Fringe theatre productions (or indeed, any and all arts productions) is not to appeal to me, personally. And yet, as I watched Just Like The Movies at the cosy Paper String Plastic, I wondered if maybe this one had been tailored specifically for me, such was my enjoyment of it.

With Josephine Were speaking verse and Matthew Gregan accompanying her on guitar, this isn’t the sort of production that usually appeals to me. One person shows (literally or effectively) tend to evoke images of wild rants, boring monologues and/or excessive character changes, but instead Were weaved a story about a trip around America, about random encounters and lovers loved and lost, and of course, movies. Her desire to have an experience “just like the movies” sends her all over continental USA, and the subsequently nostalgic journey is one that will be familiar to any audience, regardless of whether they have indeed road-tripped around America or not.

Were is one of the most likeable protagonists you are likely to find, with a bubbly and bright persona and virtually unwavering smile. Her energy even during low moments is steady, and her passion clear to everyone who has the joy of seeing her perform. There is not a moment of boredom or fleeting attention to be found here, although it seems that the verses towards the beginning of the performance have been through a few more drafts than the rest, being somewhat funnier and more polished. But this also adds to the feeling that it is a journey, and not everything on a Kerouac-esque journey is going to be funny or polished.

Were in Just Like The Movies is an absolute gem, and Gregan’s score provided subtle yet vital mood music to truly anchor the piece. It is sweet, memorable, and akin to a good romantic comedy.

With Were next off to study in London, it may be a while before there is another chance to see this wonderful performance, but should you ever get the chance, I strongly urge you to do so. It’s productions like this that remind you why we love festivals such as the Adelaide Fringe so much: the chance encounters with true talent, and the pleasant distractions from “real life”.