The Apple

The Apple is a musical science fiction film released in 1980, reflecting the disco era. It's a bizarre, zany, and highly stylized picture that interweaves elements of musical theater, dark satire, and dystopian themes with a bold, wild use of neon colors and extravagant costume design. Directed by Menahem Golan and starring Catherine Mary Stewart, George Gilmour, and Grace Kennedy, the film succeeds in creating a visually evocative journey capturing the height of rock 'n' roll spectacle.

Set in the near future of 1994, the film swirls around a naive young couple, Bibi (played by Catherine Mary Stewart) and Alphie (George Gilmour), who aspire to become pop stars. Leaving their small town in Moose Jaw, Canada, they journey to the bright lights of the big city to compete in the World Vision Song Festival. They are two genuinely talented artists propelled by their pure love of music. Their homespun, heartfelt ballad offers a stark contrast to the slick, overproduced music that populates the film’s vividly imagined world.

However, their dreams take a decisive turn when they encounter the malevolent music mogul Mr. Boogalow (Vladek Sheybal). Boogalow’s record label, BIM (Boogalow International Music), is a monolithic corporation intending to control not just the music industry but society itself, using infectious pop tunes as its primary weapon. The trigger of their series of unfortunate incidents is their participation in the World Vision Song Contest, here they encounter Boogalow's devilish influence in the music industry.

Grace Kennedy plays the role of the dazzlingly seductive pop star, Pandi, one of Boogalow’s top acts. On the other hand, Bibi, lured by the glamour and success that Boogalow promises, becomes entangled in his spider’s web, which provides a significant conflict in the narrative. She faces a tug-of-war between her innocent love for Alphie and the glamorous yet superficial world of fame promised by BIM.

The style of The Apple is a blend of vibrant science fiction and the eye-catching aesthetics of the disco era. Outlandishly imaginative set design, resplendent costumes, and energetic choreography contribute to an atmosphere that is as theatrical as it is cinematic. Its unapologetically extravagant aesthetics can be associated with the cult-classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show and even predicts elements of Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge.

The music, the real pulse of the film, does not disappoint. Composed by Coby Recht and Iris Recht, with lyrics by George S. Clinton, the soundtrack brims with catchy pop hooks and genre-spanning tunes, from ethereal folk ballads to disco anthems. Despite their satirical presentation, these songs are earnestly composed and performed, underscoring the film’s central theme of artistic integrity under threat from commercial forces.

Stewart puts in a committed performance as Bibi, expertly navigating her character’s arc from wide-eyed innocence to disillusioned fame. Gilmour, too, is strong as Alphie, manifesting a powerful vocal prowess and a touch of genuine vulnerability. As the nefarious Boogalow, Sheybal exudes a charismatic villainous flair. And Kennedy’s performance as Pandi adds significant sex appeal and dives into her role with an infectious energy.

The Apple delivers a decidedly moral tale that explores the nature of fame, the perils of superficiality, and the importance of authenticity. It also paints a bleak picture of music industry exploitation and corporate greed. Despite the dystopian setting, the film retains a campy sensibility, reflecting a satirical take on many cultural events of its time, including where the music industry appeared to be heading.

Despite its box-office falter upon release, The Apple has found cult status in the ensuing decades, with many viewers appreciating its mix of melodrama, music, and pointed social commentary. Its earnest performances and extravagant production values have endeared it to those in search of quirky cinematic experiences. The unique blend of satire, dystopian futurism, and rock musical transformed it into a memorable symbol of late 20th century counterculture cinema. For those intrigued by offbeat, stylized musicals or nostalgic for the disco era, The Apple offers a compelling, if slightly mind-bending, trip back in time.