I guess I wouldn't be at all honest if I write that I have not seriously considered heading over to Wellington for "The Premiere". It's not that far away for me. So why am I ambivolent about this?
ARGUMENTS IN FAVOUR OF GOING:
1. I've been following the movie production for years. Why not see the production through to Opening Night?
2. I've been following Richard Armitage's career for almost five years. This is an opportunity to demonstrate some support, not that I hold any fanciful thoughts about seeing him at close quarters given the crowds (more about that later).
3. I might get a glimpse of icons like Sir Peter Jackson, Sir Richard Taylor, Sir Ian McKellen, not to mention, Martin Freeman, Andy Serkis, Luke Evans, and many others.
4. I might/will get to meet fellow Tolkien geeks including some members of TORn.
5. I might get to meet some fellow RA fans.
6. I would get another look at New Zealand.
7. I might get close enough to enjoy the Premiere Parades.
ARGUMENTS AGAINST:
1. Family commitments - what if someone (elderly parents/children) fall ill?
2. Holiday leave - what if I can't get leave? The date is still up in the air
3. Expense
4. CROWDS!!!! Approximately 120,000 people lined Courtney Place and the red carpet approach to the Embassy Theatre for the Premiere of Return of the King in 2003. This movie is going to be even bigger in my opinion. I can't imagine where a spectator would even start in finding a vantage point. I guess people will be camping overnight at the venue?
6. What to wear. Hopefully TORn will manufacture a Tshirt by then. I certainly would not be the type to get dolled up for this ..... practical, comfortable and Windy Welly Weather proof clothes only.
To give you an idea of the crowds to expect ......
This was the scene for the Premiere of Return of the King in 2003. (Picture thanks to Greencine)
How the heck would you ever see anything in this????? Have I convinced myself not to go? Well, I'm not sure ..... I've waited for these movies for so long. Watch this space .... Still thinking
POLL : Would you consider going to "The Hobbit" Premiere in Wellington? Answer in sidebar.
If I lived in Australia or New Zealand I might be leaving space to the thought of going. Temptation would be too great. But then, thinking twice, what can you really see in that crowd? FX for you, then! I'll be checking to see what you finally decide :-) Who knows? You may be even very very lucky and ... ;-)
Posted by: Maria Grazia | 02/26/2012 at 07:27 PM
The thought of the crowd size puts me off, Maria. OH and I are not really pushy in terms of getting to the front of lines. Still, there will be lots of parties and a chance to see the movie at midnight if they air it to the public immediately after.
Not sure .....
Posted by: Mulubinba | 02/26/2012 at 07:34 PM
You have more reasons going than not!! LOL
I'm going you know we want you to come and be our personal tour guide!
I look at as being a once in a lifetime experience.Carpe diem!!!
Posted by: Mersguy | 02/26/2012 at 07:48 PM
If the decision is made to go, OH will want to come, so we will have to meet up over there .... if it comes off :)
I certainly can tell you of lots of places to go, but we missed a lot and will have to revisit.
Posted by: Mulubinba | 02/26/2012 at 10:08 PM
I live in the US and the thought has crossed my mind (ridiculous though it is from that distance). Were I as close as you, I would be there, at least to say I was part of the event.
Posted by: Thorinoakenshield | 02/26/2012 at 10:59 PM
Long way from Canada :D If I lived in Australia, it would be tempting. If I lived in NZ, a definite yes. Against it: I don't like crowds. I don't like hype. The whole atmosphere would be stifling...how to actually enjoy the film on its merits, or the performances? (you can tell I'm a boring Capricorn :D )
Posted by: fitzg | 02/27/2012 at 01:01 AM
I can't stand to fly more than nine hours at a stretch, so probably not.
Posted by: Servetus | 02/28/2012 at 04:48 AM
I'd love to go but more to see NZ and then take advantage of the fact I'm there to go to the Premiere and see what that's like. Agree with Fitzg though - I hate crowds! And of course a few worries are standing in my way right now: health, the 30+ hr flight, costs... so we'll see!
Posted by: Calexora | 02/28/2012 at 10:21 AM
YES Calexora - primary motivation: to see N.Z.! OK, if RA happens to be around, just chocolate icing. :D
Posted by: fitzg | 02/28/2012 at 12:14 PM