Movie Buff preview: “The Room”

(Courtesy photo)

Every once in a while a movie comes along that raises standards of film making and acting performance. “The Room,” is not such a movie.

This Friday, the International Film Series presents “The Room,” a film with the unofficial title of being the worst movie of all time. But fans wouldn’t have it any other way, as the cult status of the so-bad-it’s-good movie continues to grow with every showing.

Originally intended to be a serious drama, the movie is about a love triangle between a man, his fiancé and his best friend. Though this story may seem typical, the film’s bizarre acting, vast plot holes, endless sex scenes, and general ineptness make “The Room” a favorite among bad movie connoisseurs.

The 2003 film is the brainchild of the colorful Tommy Wiseau, a man both secretive about his ambiguous European accent and how he acquired the means for his film. As its starring actor (and writer and director and producer), Wiseau’s heavy hand in the production is one of the many reasons people are drawn to the film.

Similar to cult movies like “Rocky Horror Picture Show,” fans show up to the theater prepared with lines memorized and props ready. Here’s a checklist of ways to enhance any Room-watching experience.

1. Bring plastic spoons
Inexplicably, the set of some scenes includes a framed picture of a spoon, which viewers speculate is a stock photo that was never removed from prop frames. Be vigilant for these little works of art, and the theater should erupt in a frenzy of launched silverware.

2. Learn to love San Francisco
Just in case it is ever unclear that the movie takes place in San Francisco, the audience is tirelessly reminded with establishing footage of the Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars. Chime in with a round of “Everywhere You Look,” during shots of a street that looks suspiciously like the set of Full House.

3. Watch out for footballs
Though there are many great scenes that occur randomly with no relation to the plot, the football scene is especially memorable. Tuxedo clad men in the film stand three feet apart and throw a football back and forth for no apparent reason. Thus, be aware of any footballs flying in vicinity.

4. Feel free to shout
Like any participation movie, experiencing “The Room” is widely based on how vocal the audience is. Though newcomers may have yet to learn the best lines, coming up with well-timed retorts is still a great way to contribute to the event. Be sure to help Wiseau wail his famous line, “You are tearing me apart, Lisa!”

To watch the trailer or learn more about “The Room,” visit the International Film Series website.

The Room is playing on April 1 at 8:00 p.m. in Muenzinger. Tickets are $5 for students and will be available the night of the event.

Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Stephanie Riesco at [email protected].