a rom-com light on the com, and heavy on the cancer ward. Delia Ephron is a fantastic writer so why wasnt this all that funny? Julianna Marguiles is a fantastic actress, with a warmth and sincerity to her that is truly special- so why was she so awkward and stilted?
Peter Gallagher wasnt all that remarkable but he was so comfortable in his character's skin that it only made Marguiles seem even less so. Dont get me wrong- once it came time to emote and "act" she was better than good but the first 30 minutes of cute/perky dialogue and explanatory introductions to the various characters--she just seemed miscast.
Speaking of the various characters (again, mostly not funny, few adding anything) it would delight me if Peter Francis James were remembered come awards season, although I know unlikely. If awards are meant to recognize special performance moments, then lets: he invents characters and laughs out of glances and one-liners throughout the night. Kate McCluggage is no slouch either, but James really elevates.
The orchestra was 3/4 full and very appreciative. TDF put us center rear orchestra but there are no bad seats downstairs.
Updated On: 1/19/25 at 04:45 PM