They lived in a fantasy world, but the danger was real. The Fruit Machine aka Wonderland as known in the United States, is a British Film thriller directed by Phillip Saville. This was a television film premiering September 30, 1989. The film plays out a number of social issues of the time, as seen through the eyes of two British 16-year-olds. Eddie (Emile Charles) and Michael (Tony Forsyth) are on the brink of adulthood, both best friends and both on the run. Leaving behind the grim oppressive reality of Liverpool, they  stumble into the bizarre fantasy world of a  nightclub called "The Fruit Machine" run by transvestite hostess Annabelle (Robbie Coltrane).  There Eddie and Michael witness the brutal murder of Annabelle by Echo (Bruce Payne) that transforms their quest for adventure  into a terrifying run for their lives. Their path is strewn with murder, manipulation and deceit. Afraid, alone and hopeful, they travel to Brighton where their destination is Wonderland, a seaside aquarium with a trained dolphin show. Eddie and Michael are not the only ones traveling to Brighton; unbeknownst to the two, the killer Echo has followed them there also to make sure there are no witnesses... Bruce portrays Echo the assassin, a nonspeaking role; he speaks not a word yet every gesture is scary, every look is sinister. Graceful but deadly, beautiful but lethal. A reviewer on the IMDb made these comments about Bruce's performance in the film, "I was fascinated by the strength of Mr. Payne's performance... 'The Fruit Machine,' or as it's known by me, 'Wonderland.'  Mr. Payne's Echo leaves ripples in his wake..." We couldn't agree more. every look is sinister.... graceful but deadly... beautiful but lethal... every gesture is scary... Wonderland Thumbnail Photo Gallery Welcome to the House of Payne Wonderland Page Bruce's Angels Home Page     ©copyright 2007 Bruce's Angels background by Israfel