Last night, the 7th of April, 2009, Paramount Pictures screened the world premiere of JJ Abram’s new Star Trek movie at the Sydney Opera House. As it happened, I was one of the lucky few who were able to purchase a limited release ticket to the red carpet event.
The hotly anticipated film is a “reboot” of the famous Sci-Fi series which originally screened on US television over forty years ago in the mid-1960s. The main characters are based on the original cast of the Star Trek TV show (and subsequent movies). In the film we are re-introduced to the familiar and famous Kirk, Spock, McCoy, Scotty, Uhura, Chekov and Sulu, but with new actors and a new direction.
Before we get to the film – and we will – let’s talk about the premiere itself. What a venue! What an event! I’ve been witness to a couple of Hollywood premieres (not a red carpet view, mind) and other similar functions and none come close to the atmosphere at the Sydney Opera House last night. Not withstanding the array of famous people who walked the red carpet, it was the surreal experience of being present to walk the red carpet itself which really captivated me.
We arrived early and acquired our tickets from the box office – we were given special limited edition posters to commemorate the extraordinary event, each numbered out of 300. This marks (for those keeping score) the 9th official movie poster for this particular film – following from the coloured character posters released last year.
After obtaining tickets and posters we headed back to Circular Quay for a light meal and beverage and to regroup with our fellow movie goers. At around 6pm we made our way back to the foot of the Opera House, taking pictures of the red carpet, media and security guards.
Sylvain (Right) and I with the Red Carpet/Opera House in the background
As the sunlight began to wane, we decided to proceed past the assembled photographers and up into the Opera House itself. It is hard to describe what this experience felt like, needless to say it was exhilarating and exciting.
On the Red Carpet & View of Movie Stars Talking to Reporters
Once inside, we spent about an hour milling about with celebrities and other invited guests. At one point we headed back out to watch the stars arrive and be met by the throng of reporters. I was able to clearly spot Australian star Eric Bana talking with reporters as well as a number of other local celebrities.
The view inside the Opera House main foyer
As the time approached 7pm we were brought inside to prepare for the screening of the film. Once in position, we waited until approximately 7:30pm. On our way to our seats out phones were relinquished per security requirements. At around 7:40pm the head of Paramount Pictures Australia/New Zealand greeted the audience and introduced the director, JJ Abrams.
Mr. Abrams had a natural charm and presence, and clearly won over an attentive and appreciative audience. Giving high praise to Sydney, he introduced the members of the cast who were in attendance for the premiere. One by one the actors made their way up in front of the huge screen which had been custom erected specifically for the big event.
Once introductions (and applause) had finished it was time for the film itself. Before I get to the film.. let me also point out that the soundtrack and sound system were specifically engineered for the venue and for the premiere itself. This was also the first film premiere to ever be held at the Opera House, so we were truly apart of something special – this was not, I believe, lost on the audience.
This entry will continue..
[Continued in Part 2]
