Alice Cooper: The Strange Case of Alice Cooper

Alice Cooper: The Strange Case of Alice Cooper is a captivating 1979 concert film that merges live performances with theatrical and dramatic elements to deliver an unprecedented journey through the world of rock music. Spearheaded by Alice Cooper, the legendary rock artist himself, the film features an array of unforgettable performances that brilliantly capture Cooper's audacious and often controversial stage persona. Throwing in elements of horror courtesy of the iconic horror figure, Vincent Price, the film ramps up the unmistakable raw edginess of Alice Cooper, backed by a skillful curation of inventive special effects.

Alice Cooper remains a significant phenomenon in the rock music world, known for his extraordinary stage presence and distinctive style that uniquely blends rock, heavy metal, and glam rock. In Alice Cooper: The Strange Case of Alice Cooper, the viewer gets a front-row seat to the spectacle, with Cooper's performances that encapsulate his trademark themes of death, decay, and madness, brought to life with an assortment of props - from the famous guillotine to frighteningly realistic mannequins.

The film starts with an incredible performance from Cooper, who is seen wearing his distinctive stage attire of a ratty top hat and eyeliner, which is then followed by a succession of dramatic interludes and set pieces. Filmed during a single stage show in San Diego back in 1979, the movie reflects the zenith of Cooper's creativity and mesmerizing showmanship. It not only showcases his top hits but also features some of his lesser-known tracks that will still thrill die-hard fans and new listeners alike. This mix is sure to please, providing an authentic snapshot of this iconic performer's vast catalog.

Joining Alice Cooper in this cinematic concert is none other than the legendary actor Vincent Price. Known for his pivotal roles in classic horror films like House of Wax and The Fall of the House of Usher, Price's eerie and captivating performances are a fitting match for Cooper’s dark stage persona. Though Price does not appear in the flesh, his voice-over performance is a definitive part of the film. His creepy monologues and dialogue, rife with his signature style of articulate, sinister gloating, take the viewer on a fantastical journey, thus heightening the overall thrill factor.

Clifford Allen’s contribution to the film cannot be overlooked. Playing the character of ‘The General’, Allen brings a level of intrigue and humor to the story while locking horns with Cooper's outlandish character. He is a real-life participant in Cooper's narrative, which is otherwise dominated by strange characters and bizarre scenarios.

For those who are new to Alice Cooper's world, the film serves as the perfect initiation into his unique rock realm. It mixes together vignettes that are fantastical, shocking, and downright strange with his thrilling live onstage performances. Even for those well-versed in his narrative and familiar with his onstage antics, the film presents a fresh perspective and exclusive insights into the mind and madness of the inimitably eccentric performer.

The direction of the film is artful, maintaining a constant equilibrium between the drama of live concert footage and storytelling. The sound quality is commendable, filling every music segment with raw energy, while the cinematography is first-rate, using a variety of angles and perspectives to deliver the electric atmosphere of the concert.

Overall, Alice Cooper: The Strange Case of Alice Cooper is not just a concert film. It's a snapshot of one of rock's most influential celebs at the peak of his career. It is an immersive journey into the elaborate universe of Alice Cooper and serves as a tribute, and a testament to his mastery as a rock artist. This film undoubtedly transcends the boundaries of conventional concert films, making it a 'must-watch' for anyone interested in rock 'n' roll history or the enigma that is Alice Cooper.