‘Beer Wars’ LIVE with Ben Stein … “Bueller?”

I’ve seen some interesting things on the big screen. I remember many years ago attending a children’s adventure movie simply because it was being promoted as the first truly interactive theatrical movie experience. I can’t even remember the title, it was THAT bad! But, the whole reason I went was to experience the gimmick. While it was certainly a rough work in progress (at best) it was a neat concept. The idea was that at pre-determined turning points in the story, the movie would break and options would be displayed on the screen.   The audience would then use the remote controls given to them upon entering the theatre to vote by selecting the button that correlated to the path in which each person wanted to see the story continue. Needless to say, the film was a flop and the gimmick obviously did not survive.

Gimmicks: Some are good, some are bad… but, the trend of expanding what it means to “go to the movies” continues to get redefined. One of the biggest promoters of this new utilitarian use of the mega-multiplex is Fathom Events. I’ve attended a few of their events, from feature-length anime to live-action adaptations, but the variety is even more diverse than this. Anniversary screenings of modern classics like ‘First Blood’, numerous live operas, documentary events and even live coverage of the 50 States in 50 Days marathon event to benefit Hurricane Katrina victims. Fathom Events is now presenting a new live event called ‘Beer Wars’ hosted by Ben Stein. Don’t believe me, read below:

Beer Wars LIVE with Ben Stein
Thu., Apr. 16 – 8:00PM ET / 7:00PM CT / 6:00PM MT / tape delayed 8:00PM PT

Uncover the truth behind your favorite label in a no holds barred journey through the U.S. beer industry. Told from an insider’s perspective, this film explores the struggles of small independent brewers to survive in an industry dominated by corporate behemoths. Director Anat Baron takes you on a revealing and entertaining ride that provides unexpected and surprising turns and promises to change the world’s opinion on those infamous 99 bottles of beer on the wall. Tickets on sale now. Cheers!

So, does this sound crazy, silly, hilarious, awesome… or just a weird combination of it all? I like Ben Stein, but what is this really all about?

Check out the website here for more info and to see video clips!

[source: FathomEvents.com]