Review: Back to the Future

Hey readers!

It's time for my review of Back to the Future. 

"Small-town California teen Marty McFly is thrown back into the '50s when an experiment by his eccentric scientist friend Doc Brown goes awry. Traveling through time in a modified DeLorean car, Marty encounters young versions of his parents, and must make sure that they fall in love or he'll cease to exist. Even more dauntingly, Marty has to return to his own time and save the life of Doc Brown."

Back to the Future is well and truly breathtaking; it is unlike anything seen in theatres for quite some time. The show is a complete spectacle, and not even words can be used to describe how astonishing it really is. Without giving too much away, it is a musical that must be seen in order to be believed. The special effects, designed by Chris Fisher, are among the most visually striking I have seen in any theatrical production; the show goes all-out to ensure that everything is done to perfection. The combined use of screens and illusions is awe-inspiring to behold, creating theatre magic in the process. The final sequence, in particular, was outstanding and may very well be the most technically outstanding theatrical moments I have ever been witness to. The audience were simply in amazement throughout, showing just how effective these special effects actually are. 

The book of the show is written by Bob Gale, who was similarly responsible for the film's screenplay. The writing strays true to the original movie, whilst also incorporating some new ideas for the stage. Fans seemed to be responding very well to the script, applauding at iconic lines which resurfaced in the musical. The show does well to create nostalgia, and I am sure the show will bring back some very fond memories for a lot of people. In addition to this, the story proves well-paced, and maintains its momentum from beginning to end. The musical score, by Alan Silvestri and Glen Ballard, works well too, and I particularly enjoyed the use of instrumental interludes. The inclusion of the main theme proves effective as well, further adding to the nostalgia.

In the leading role of Marty McFly is Olly Dobson, who is absolutely perfect. Dobson finds the ideal balance between putting his own spin on the character, whilst still honouring the legacy of Michael J. Fox, who originated the role in film. He proves very charismatic, and is a fantastic leading man. Dobson is joined by Roger Bart, who is equally as excellent in the role of Doc Brown. Bart brings so much enthusiasm to the role, and his energy levels are infectious. He is also skilled at comic timing, which is evidenced through the way in which he had the audience laughing in stitches at numerous points. A special mention must also be awarded to Hugh Coles as George McFly, who is making his West End debut. Cole embodies the role faultlessly and is everything you would want in an actor playing George McFly. He had an incredible characterisation, which in turn meant that it was he who stole the show.

The set, video and lighting, by Tim Hatley, Tim Lutkin and Finn Ross respectively, are among the best designs I have seen throughout this past year. They all work in tandem with another to create something really special, and the end result is visually stunning. The costumes, designed by Tim Hatley, are also remarkable and did an excellent job at conveying the different eras presented within the show. In particular, the costume designs for the school dance sequence proved to be an overall highlight and were extremely well done. 

Now for my final verdict on Back to the Future. I give Back to the Future...

Back to the Future is one of the most exciting new musicals that the West End has had in recent years. It's creatively ambitious, and that ambition more than pays off. Beyond that, there are also some fantastic performances to behold.

Thanks for reading!

-The Basic Theatre Reviewer