The SMU film department hosted producer Arlene Sidaris for a special showing of “Picasso Trigger,” played in its original 35mm film. The 1988 comedy film, revolving around secret agents in their pursuit of a crime lord, was played at the Texas Theatre on Nov. 12. The vintage viewing experience brought together SMU students and film fanatics for the rare opportunity.
Arlene created Malibu Bay Films in the late 1980s alongside her late husband, Andy Sidaris, the director of “Picasso Trigger” and an SMU alumnus. The couple had a passion for entertainment and making people laugh.
She spoke on her husband’s love for these films and the industry itself. With his top priority being respect for everyone he worked with, Arlene shared how Andy’s time as director was marked by a love for the craft, openness and the opportunity to make people smile.
“So many directors will handle their screen with an iron fist… Andy wasn’t like that,” Arlene said. “It really made a difference.”
The films are characterized by action-packed plots, including several battles between the heroes and the villains, but with a raunchy spin.
“The Warner Brothers called it: James Bond meets Baywatch,” Arlene said.
After a raffle for several Malibu Bay merchandise products, including a VHS copy of their first film signed by Andy himself, the audience settled in for the show. The old film crackled through the projector as the grainy picture filled the screen. Authentic previews from the 1980s and 1990s prompted applause from the crowd, nostalgic for the older film style. Finally, the feature picture began.
An hour and 39 minutes of pure entertainment enthralled the theater. The audience’s laughter, rarely faltering, acknowledged the genius and intentionally cheesy lines and random spouts of intimacy.
“I got a black belt in shotgun,” said Secret Agent Edy before shooting down her enemy.
After finally defeating the crime lords with a dynamite-rigged boomerang and a missile tracking the main villain’s pacemaker, the viewing experience came to an end. Applause boomed through the theater before the audience began to disperse, and Arlene reappeared, thanking everyone for coming.
“I’m thrilled to have people respond that positively and get the joke,” she said.
The night, full of laughter and community, ended with enthusiasm and empty popcorn bags scattered throughout the viewing room.
“It was genuinely so nice to just relax and have a good time,” said SMU senior Molly Acarregui, “The comedic timing was perfect, and I had so much fun.”
