REVIEW: Monsters of the American Cinema

A great script, interesting themes, and an overall immersive experience collide

Know Theatre of Cincinnati is known for doing unusual work; the Cincinnati Fringe Festival, the highlight of the year, is legendary for its experimental and weird productions. The main stage also features pieces you wouldn't see produced elsewhere in town. In the case of "Monsters of the American Cinema," though, director Tamara Winters has chosen a script that deserves a professional production like this one.

The playwright, Christian St. Croix, has crafted an excellent two-hander featuring a gay, black stepfather (played by Know veteran Andrew Ian Adams) and his stepson, a white heterosexual 16-year-old film buff (a delightfully youthful Grant Zentmeyer.) The text explores themes of racism, sexual bigotry, family dynamics, and drug addiction - but all with humor and an overlay of classic monster movies. It's really smart.

Andrew Hungerford's set and lighting are on par with his usual excellent work, creating a lived-in RV, its roof, and the drive-in movie theatre that "Remy" (Adams) owns and runs. Noelle Wedig-Johnston, possibly the most underrated costumer in town, dresses both characters appropriately and uses some interesting pieces to enhance the magical realism and dream sequences that occur in the show. Douglas Borntrager's projections and sound design add to the immersive nature of the show, as does the lobby decor downstairs. There are even themed drinks at the bar to accompany this short two-act play.

The actors emote strongly, which can feel overwhelming in the intimate setting. A slightly subdued approach might have felt more fitting at times. I was drawn into their world during the more emotional scenes, though. All said, this production's well-crafted script, technical elements, and immersive nature are worth a look.

MONSTERS OF THE AMERICAN CINEMA runs through October 8th at Know Theatre of Cincinnati. Tickets and more information can be found here.