Speed the Plow

SOURCE: www.brisbanecritiques.com Speed the Plow By David Mamet Directed by Terry Annesley Presented by Starlight Theatre Co-op Centre Stage Theatre, Spring Hill, Brisbane Speed the Plow is a fiery three-act play set in the heart of Hollywood that unfortunately took the cast two acts to warm up to. The Starlight production finished with an energetic and witty bang, which was a surprise ending to the tedious beginning. David Mamet, best known for his screenplays Hannibal and Wag the Dog, wrote this fast-paced story about the morality and ethics of modern society in 1988. Set in the big-screen world of Hollywood, a film producer, his aspiring offsider and a secretary battle out a choice between producing a typical blockbuster or an avant-garde feature. Deadlines, loyalties and beliefs create chaos in the decision-making process, taking place in an industry that highlights the differences between what people think they want, and what people need. Oddball Charlie Fox, played by Jack Bradford, and businessman Bobby Gould, played by Brian Bolton, kick start the show with talk over a major movie star who has agreed to feature in their potential blockbuster. But what is meant to be humorous repartee that creates the atmosphere for the story’s theme was instead frantic banter that caused agitation on set and unease within the audience. There was high energy, but the ambience was muddled and lacked direction. The comedy floundered and nothing interesting in the story developed from the initial topic. After a meek appearance from secretary Karen, played by Andrea Becker, in act one, a lively and passionate woman emerged in act two when she pleaded with Gould to produce a spiritual film about the end of the world. It is in this scene that an interesting foundation began to develop, raising complex questions about the society in which we live. The play uses popular cinema as a metaphor for human race values, and Karen and Gould discuss the potential to change those values – but what’s in it for them? Becker’s forward but polite portrayal of Karen created a cloud of mystery around her character that had the audience wondering how she fitted into the world of movie making. This scene was a dramatic change from act one and the confusion set in about whether the show was a light-hearted comedy or an intense drama. The show redeems itself in act three when Bradford becomes hilariously entertaining after his edgy performance with Bolton in act one. Karen has made a strong impression on Gould, and Fox fights to remind him of what movie making is really all about. In his desperation, he breaks from his cocoon of two-dimensional depth into a witty realist with great timing. It is only ever Fox who was clear about his motives, while Gould questioned his own, and Karen remained secretive. The set was basic and a splash of colour would have been good. Costumes were appropriate, but overall this show wasn’t really about appearances, and was more food for thought. Speed the Plow is showing until the 12th of September. Bookings on 1300 762 545 or at www.oztix.com.au. Kellie Scott, 31 August 2009, www.brisbanecritiques.com.