Speed-the-Plow

Synopsis

A satirical play about money and movies - desire and ambition. The three-hander focuses on a producer called Bobby and his decision, brought about by his seduction by a temporary secretary, to film a novel about a nuclear catastrophe and the end of the world rather than the star-laden, sure-fire hit brought to him by his friend Charlie. The original Broadway production starred Madonna while the British premiere was produced by the National in 1989.

Our Review:

24 May 2006

David Mamet's caustic look at the cut n' thrust world of Hollywood and its "Make the thing everyone made last year" ethic is particularly timely when you notice the number of sequels in your cinema. The writer dissects this big dumb world and the motivation to find the next smash hit. Charlie Fox thinks he has the perfect movie idea. But his life is shattered when secretary Karen arrives and his boss, Bob Gould becomes interested in her plans.

For anyone interested in looking behind the silver screen this play provides you with a humorous and interesting insight. You find out what lies beneath the shades, suits, and the capitalist views. The dialogue, as you would expect from Mamet, is razor sharp. Gould sums up the writer's views on Tinsletown when he says: "I'm a whore and proud of it."

As insightful as this play is though, it is not without its faults. Chris Honer's direction is fairly solid and the pace that the writer is famed for is evident. But ultimately the pie...

Read more of the review

Latest User Review

193.61.255.84) - 7 June 2006:

Loved every minute. Casting was perfect. Would highly recommend. ...

Read more and add your own review