Along with gems alike "Withnail & I," "A Midwinters Tale," even "Noises Off" Curtain Up is a film every live theatre worker should see. Based on the idea that 'it'll be alright on the night!' the film is infused with clichés from the theatre world. From the first time author in awe of her creation, the could-have-been-famous-but-if-only-it-weren't-for-xxx-reason actress, the drunken actress in mid-life crisis who insists on being nude, the juvenile lead whose best audience is his mirror to the jaded director/producer who plows on regardless of others' emotions they are all lifted directly from the people who still work in the live industry today. The cast, lead by Morley and Rutherford, are excellent in portraying these highly-strung individuals that even though work for selfish reasons, pull together to finish the play before 'Curtain Up' Today however the film is very dated. Even for the fifties, regional theatres in England weren't often in the position to have a weekly-rep company employed fulltime. This film documents an institution eroded by film and television and to view today seems odd, old-fashioned and perhaps far fetched. Its a jolly giggle that gives tribute to the live theatre and as such many in-jokes may be missed by a layman. So when watching this well roasted chestnut use a little forgiveness. It was released in a different time for a different market, however for any actor, technician, director or the like its a must.
Review of Curtain Up
