I write regular theatre reviews, features and interviews and reflect on my previous/current work on the stage.
Sunday, 3 February 2013
Alfie 40 years on. The making of.
This short film reflects humorously on the later life of the iconic film character played by Michael Caine. We find Alfie forty years after the end of the film and he is just as sexist as ever and a chain smoker.
I enjoyed the film again recently on DVD and made note of Caine's expressions and use of language. His constant usage of the term 'birds' for women (his alleged conquests) and the expressions 'mumsy but in good condition' for an older woman with whom he had a sexual liaison or two. Also I decided to call the little dog he befriends 'It' after the fact that he refers to all his girlfriends as 'it' - this has got to be one of the most demeaning put downs against womankind ever. There is also his constant belief that women still find him irresistible despite his obvious lack of tact, manners and down at heel looks. Note egg deliberately spread on t shirt.
I don't smoke but watched the way that Alfie lit up during various parts of the film (hand guarding against a draft.)
The piece was filmed at my home on the stairs with the front door open to let in a goodly amount of light for filming and the ciggy smell out! It was done in one take after a practise run.
Good one. Although you can tell you're not a smoker. Me neither. Disgusting habit.
ReplyDeleteI thought Alfie was a bit of a sad film really, both for Alfie himself, and for the women he mistreated. Especially Julia Foster's character.
Great fun. Bet you enjoyed doing this.
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