Conference bookie::movies

801.0. "Vanya On 42nd Street" by TUXEDO::HASBROUCK () Tue Apr 04 1995 18:27

My friend fell asleep during this one.  I found it challenging and confusing.
The gimmick is this - there's an old Russian family melodrama by Anton Chekov 
called "Uncle Vanya", and someone got the idea to repackage it in a play about
a read-through by the cast, in the first days of production.  The Chekov 
play becomes a play-within-a-play.  The read-through is gripping.  And the
point, I think, is to show the vitality of the script and the raw acting 
that precedes staging, set design, and direction.  Actors come up with loony
and clever interpretations that we know will be cut away or spruced up by 
opening night.  The magic of theater, at the first rehearsal!

I've never read or seen Chekov, so much of my concentration was spent
following the script.  I don't like the Chekov play much.  And I don't think
the film gets beyond the gimmick.  A pleasure anyhow, with an excellent 
performance by Wallace Shawn as the tormented Vanya.

Brian

    
    You have never seen or read Chekov, this is a good time to start
    He was probably the greatest playright in the 20th century.
    Tennessee Williams admired him tremendously. Pick up one of his
    plays or any book on his life. You will not be sorry.Enjoy.
    
    
    
    
    BR