Back to the Future (Part I) in concert, with MSO

An Electrifying Journey Back to the Future with MSO

Experiencing Back to the Future on the big screen with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO) at Hammer Hall was spectacular. This unique presentation of the 1985 classic, infused fresh excitement and nostalgia into every scene, bringing the magic of Robert Zemeckis’ film to life with renewed intensity.

The audience was thrilled from start to finish, cheering and applauding not only at iconic moments but also at the orchestra’s phenomenal performance, amplifying the nuanced emotions throughout the film. Fans wore Back to the Future T-shirts, and even a few young audience members dressed as Marty McFly, adding to the lively, almost interactive atmosphere in the hall.

The MSO’s precision was flawless, with each musical cue perfectly aligned to heighten the drama and excitement on screen. Their performance was truly uplifting, making it feel, for many, as if they were watching the movie for the very first time. The only drawback was the omission of the licensed non-orchestral tracks, relying instead on the original film soundtrack for these moments. Hearing the orchestra perform these beloved songs live would have been a memorable addition to an already fantastic experience.

From this reviewer’s vantage point, the conductor’s prompt-screen was viewable, which offered incredible insight to the technology used, but also the unique challenges of performing a live film score, especially in front of an audience. The conductor’s screen lit up with pulses and beat taps, much like PlayStation Let’s Sing or Sing Star, although without any allowance for failure.

Overall, MSO’s rendition of Back to the Future was a joyful, immersive ride through time, showcasing both the timelessness of the film and the skill of Melbourne’s finest musicians.

They accelerated the audience to 88 miles per hour, took them back to 1955 and made the 40-plus aged in attendance feel like they were kids again.

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra have more upcoming cinematic events, including Home Alone and Indiana Jones: Raiders of the lost Ark.