Game Boys - Game Boys Cinematic Universe

Remember 20 years ago when Movie World was the ultimate holiday experience? Thinking the animatronic dinosaur was incredibly realistic? Reaching out to try and grab the 3D movie? Game Boys haven’t forgotten, and they’re not quite ready to forgive, either.

Taking their audience on a back-lot tour of Australia’s premier film studio, the show quickly descends into the circles of weird and wonderful lo-tech madness for which the Game Boys have become known. While audience participation is somewhat mandatory, the duo read the room effortlessly and pull out those willing to get in on the fun, ensuring the show never falters as a result of an unsure punter.

Brothers Eden and Josh Porter haven’t just tapped into the well of ‘90s nostalgia, they’ve blown up the dam wall. Everything from Jurassic Park to The Matrix, all the way (for reasons still unknown) to Blue Heelers. While each bit is drenched with seven layers of silliness, at the core is a clever and direct commentary on the failings of the film industry. A Who Wants To Be A Millionaire-style game show is a searing indictment on the practice of “twin film” releases. A red-carpet pun battle takes cheeky slights at Liam Neeson’s repetitive action career. Even the entire show itself has its aim at the exorbitant nature of the industry, charging folks three figures for an extra special souvenir photo. For a show that presents itself as a fanciful walk down memory lane, it’s an incredibly nuanced and pointed performance.

While the delivery of Game Boys Cinematic Universe occasionally stagnates, what shines above all else is the Porters' commitment to the craft. Call-backs and meta jokes flourish in this wonderfully fun and incredibly detailed sketch performance. Even for those who never experienced a crappy studio tour in the real world, it’s a joy to watch.