By Isle of Wight Observer
The Apollo Theatre Players in Newport will be screening two atmospheric mystery Steampunk-themed films today (Saturday).
At 2pm Hugo, directed by Martin Scorsese, highlights real-life illusionist and early film-maker, Georges Méliès, exploring how magic tricks evolved into cinematic special effects.
Hugo revolves around a mysterious mechanical boy (an automaton) left behind by the main character’s father. It is a gentle quest to unlock a lost piece of art history, and a great way to spend a family afternoon. Entry is free, and no booking is required.
At 7.30pm, The Prestige, a dark, psychological thriller directed by Christopher Nolan will be screened. The film focuses on the intense, secretive world of 19th-century stage magicians, and deals heavily with complex stage machinery, mechanical traps, and the boundary-pushing inventions of Nikola Tesla. Admission is £10 (£5 for Apollo Players members).
Both films delve into the fascinating mechanics of illusion, history, and secrets, and share rich themes centred on the art of trickery, historical settings, and complex mechanisms. You are encouraged to wear your Steampunk costumes to the shows to add to the atmosphere!
This is a great opportunity to see two critically-acclaimed films in one day on the big screen for less than the normal cost to see one!
The Apollo Theatre, in Pyle Street, offers a comfortable 130-seat auditorium with quality screening and sound, complemented with a well-stocked bar.
For bookings and more information on the Apollo Theatre Players autumn programme; check out the website apollo-theatre.org.uk.