Hmm, the science fiction film Christmas on Mars bills itself as ยa fantastical film freak-out featuring the Flaming Lips.ย Considering that FL are one of the countryยs wildest psychedelic bands, this ought to be interesting. The cast features ex-Houstonian Steven Drozd, whoยs also the drummer for the Flaming Lips, as Major Syrtis. Wayne Coyne, who appears as the Martian, is the Lipsย lead singer/songwriter/guitarist. And Steve Burns, astronaut #1, was the host of the kidยs show Blueยs Clues.
Despite its simple plot, Christmas on Mars isnยt kid stuff. During a colonization of Mars, the oxygen generator and gravity control malfunction. Thankfully, an alien comes along and helps the dumb-nut humans out (sort of like pilgrims and Indians, only without any air to breathe). The Flaming Lips have a reputation for multilayered lyrics and energetic performances. Expect the same from Christmas on Mars. 7:30 and 10:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Alamo Drafthouse, West Oaks, 1000 West Oaks. For information, call 281-920-9211 or visit www.drafthouse.com/westoaks. $8.50.
Dec. 12-14, 7:30 & 10:30 p.m., 2008
This article appears in Dec 11-17, 2008.