Pure Cinema

Really engaging play that is great for film buffs but you don’t need to have previous knowledge of the two men to enjoy this engaging comedy-drama.... full review

A fascinating and immersive portrayal of two well-known personalities. The actors really embodied them well without becoming caricatures. Lindsay Seim's performance as a fictional amalgamation of women was an important contribution to the interactions between the more famous characters. She played well off of both of them, sometimes acting as a foil, as well as playing one of the men against the other. ... full review

What an incredible show. With amazing acting from all three performers and top notch directing from Ritchey, this piece soars as one of those few shows over an hour that are completely worth it! The beautiful simplicity of the stage/set design adds to the classic feel of the piece, and no prop feels unneccessary. Theater at its best that is just lovely from start to finish. ... full review

Apologies for the obvious pun, but Bill Chott’s performance as Hitch will leave you spellbound. He’s a deft impressionist, so you’ll get all the mannerisms and inflections you’d expect, and done to perfection, but it never leans into parody. Rather, he portrays the legendary director as fully human, with fears and regrets and stubbornness, as well as wit and ego. He’s an imposing presence who anchors the show, but when his nimble castmates whittle him down to size and confront him with his phobias, it’s as hilarious as it is heartbreaking. The dialogue is rich and interesting, allowing all three characters the chance to tell their stories that clearly show off the research put into them without ever feeling like they're delivering informatio... full review

What an original and interesting concept! The perspective, talent interactions and premise all make for a refreshing theater experience.... full review

Well written, smart inciteful backstage Hollywood romp.... full review

Riveting theatre about two of the most influential directors of the 20th Century. The acting is superb, the directing keeps the show clean, moving, and engaging, and the script is incredible. This is an absolute must-see this Fringe!... full review

"PURE CENEMA"... What a way to jump off the 2024 Hollywood Fringe. This is my first show of the season and it reminds me of what it is to see outstanding fringe performances with amazing writing, fantastic direction, a spot on ridiculously talented cast, and all done within the chaos and simplicity of the fringe festival. Immediately when the lights came up I absolutely knew who the characters were. Bill Chott, "Alfred Hitchcock" nailed the cinematic icon, down to his pouty bottom lip, his voice, his demeanor, his walk and movements all wonderful acting.  Aaron Caponigro, depiction of "Mel Brooks" was absolutely delightful, what a fun guy to watch on stage. He gave us so much of the comedy legends' love for art and direction and movie making... full review

Chock full of laughs and film references for cinephiles, a string of meetings between Hitchcock and Brooks explores not only their relationship, but their individual fears, and the women in their life. Cohesive aesthetic and visually arresting props. Tight direction and genuine performances. Chott as Hitchcock is a standout, with complete embodiment of the legendary director and total command of his unmistakable voice, dialect, and body mannerisms. ... full review

A smart, funny, thoughtful exploration of not only two of our greatest storytellers, but their fears of falling short and or / someday becoming irrelevant. The writing is excellent. Bill Chott is fantastic. ... full review