There was undoubtedly talent on stage, but this play really wasn’t my cup of tea and left me stone cold. If shows had colours this would be ochre and rust. It was desolate and depressing, just like the interstates into American cities and the rust belt.
The dialogue is impressively fast-paced and furious, but it’s not clever or witty - just endless swearing - and the storyline is pretty flimsy. For a show where very little happens and there is very little movement or use of the space, the set is incredibly detailed. It is used so little though that it seems like a waste, but it is incredibly effective at setting the scene.
Both Acts seemed to end really abruptly, so much so that the audience weren’t completely sure it was the interval or the end! Even though this was a very short show, I found it a real slog to sit through it - and I’m finding it a real slog to write this review! I haven’t seen the film, but I suspect that if you like the film you’ll love this play; and if you love the actors in it, you’ll also love this play. Sadly, however, this play just wasn’t for me.
2018: