Cameron's Night!

Last Saturday night's screening of "Aliens" and "The Abyss", plus James Cameron's Q&A, was more enjoyable than I could have imagined!

First off, the audience was great! Everyone was wired for the evening (respectfully) and as the opening credits to "Aliens" rolled, there were some funny fan shout-outs. As Bill Paxton's name appeared, a couple of us said "GAME OVER, MAN!". We all laughed! Famous lines and moments in the movie were greeted with very enthusiastic rounds of applause! Ripley walks out in the power loader saying her iconic line and everyone cheered excitedly! Paxton's "why don't you put her in charge?!" was another of many crowd pleasers.

As the movie came to a close, the lights went up and the moderator took the stage to introduce James Cameron. We were told he'd have to leave quickly afterwards because he had to get back to work on "Avatar". I turned and looked to the back of the theater and there he was, closely surrounded by an entourage of at least seven people, plus one bodyguard.

Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Cameron answered a number of questions put forth by someone representing American Cinematheque, who sponsor a lot of these screenings. And then surprisingly, they opened up the floor to questions from the audience. This was an unexpected treat since we were all under the impression his time was short. A number of people had a chance to pick Cameron's brain about past and future movies, including myself. Some were pretty technicaI as far as his shooting in 3D on the new film. I asked what other types of projects he'd like to try his hand at that he had not tackled yet, and what actor from his previous films would he most like to work with again. Sigourney Weaver came to mind, who of course is starring in "Avatar", and he felt no one else could've played that role.

But wait, there's more! After the Q&A he actually signed autographs and took pictures with fans! Wow!! Bonus!! I really wanted to have a photo with him, but unfortunately time ran out before I had a chance to get close enough. I did manage to get some close up shots because I was standing six or seven feet away! Check them out here.

After Cameron left there was a ten minute intermission before "The Abyss" started. A number of people left after Cameron's talk, but the theater was still about two thirds full as the next movie unspooled. Once again, a great crowd who appreciated those iconic lines and moments from Cameron's follow up to "Aliens".

I don't think we could have asked for a more satisfying night!