Stroman/Kander's BEAST IN THE JUNGLE to become a film, with Frank Langella

[JBroadway]

Posted: 2/21/21 at 6:50pm

https://www.broadwayworld.com/article/Frank-Langella-Will-Lead-THE-BEAST-IN-THE-JUNGLE-Film-Directed-by-Susan-Stroman-20210221

For those who don't know: this was a "dance play" that had its premier at Vineyard a few years back. It was essentially a play (no singing) that made heavy use of dance as a storytelling device, along with an incidental score by John Kander. 

It was one of my absolute favorite shows of that season. But it was horribly underrated IMO. I really thought it was a great candidate for a a Broadway transfer, but apparently I was the only one. Reception was pretty tepid, and it was quickly forgotten.

On one hand, I’m delighted that the material is getting a future life. But I also have a hard time imagining this translating to film. Especially since Susan Stroman’s last cinematic effort has been widely criticized for being too stagey. 

Also, I understand that Frank Langella is a much more famous actor than Peter Friedman, but Friedman was extraordinary in this role, and I wish he could've reprised it. I also think Friedman is just a superior actor to Langella in general. 

Updated On: 2/21/21 at 06:50 PM

[¿Macavity?]

Posted: 2/25/21 at 12:49am

I would've loved to have seen this on stage, the score is breathtaking! Also happy to see Susan Stroman getting another shot at film. The Producers was a treat for myself, as I didn't have the privilege to see it on Broadway.

[Sutton Ross]

Posted: 2/25/21 at 2:56pm

God, I loved this show. Being the front row and being able to absorb the most gorgeous music and dance I have seen in years was such an incredible gift. As the narrator spoke, I thought to myself "Frank Langella would be incredible in this." Wow. I cannot wait! 

[JBroadway]

Posted: 2/25/21 at 3:21pm

Sutton Ross said: "God, I loved this show. Being the front row and being able to absorb the most gorgeous music and dance I have seen in years was such an incredible gift. As the narrator spoke, I thought to myself "Frank Langellawould be incredible in this." Wow. I cannot wait!"

 

I was in the front row as well! So magical! 

[CATSNYrevival]

Posted: 2/25/21 at 3:27pm

I love the album. It would have been nice to see at Lincoln Center if it had transferred.

[JBroadway]

Posted: 2/25/21 at 3:30pm

For anyone curious, here is the thread for when the show was running at the Vineyard

https://forum.broadwayworld.com/readmessage.php?thread=1108442#

Seems like most people in the thread enjoyed the show, but some were lukewarm, and critics seemed even less enthusiastic.