George Clooney has made his Broadway debut with “Good Night, and Good Luck”. The play opened on April 3 at the Winter Garden Theatre. It serves as a warning about the dangers of McCarthyism. The play closely follows Clooney’s 2005 Oscar-nominated film of the same name. Also, the film was a response to the Iraq War and addressed media responsibility during that time. Continue reading to learn more about George Clooney’s Broadway debut in “Good Night, and Good Luck”.
George Clooney Takes on a New Role
In the stage version, George Clooney plays the iconic journalist Edward R. Murrow. Murrow opposed U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy during the 1950s. McCarthy stirred up fear and hysteria about communism in the media. Also, Clooney captures Murrow’s serious demeanor and calm delivery extremely well. His performance includes long segments of TV broadcasts projected in black and white. These are on multiple screens around that stage.
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Supporting Cast Shines
The production includes a strong supporting cast. Clark Gregg plays Don Hollenbeck. He is a newscaster targeted by McCarthy. Also, Gregg’s performance is powerful and emotional. Ilana Glazer is known for her work on “Broad City”. She plays Shirley Wershba. Moreover, Glazer brings warmth to the story with her character’s secret romance.
Issues with Adaptation
George Clooney performance is commendable. However, the adaptation from film to stage has problems. The script is almost the same as the movie’s. Thus, it lacks creativity and depth. It does not explore Murrow’s personal thoughts and relationships. The only new scene includes an awkward joke about sane people moving to Europe.
Some might argue that the original script is so strong that changes are not necessary. However, many feel that the adaptation seems lazy. There is a sense that Clooney and his co-writer, Grant Heslov, depended too much on the film’s success. They might believe that audiences would enjoy anything they presented on the stage.
Production Design
The play includes impressive set designs by Scott Pask and costumes by Brenda Abbandanlolo. These elements look great and set the scene well. However, director David Cromer fails to bring the energy to the production. The urgency of creating a live broadcast is missing. Also, the intense emotions of Murrow confronting McCarthy are not felt by the audience.
Most behind the scenes moments are also missed. This is because the actors face away from the audience. Also, they focus on monitors instead of engaging the crowd. Clooney, positioned upstage, is often seen only on the screens. This disconnect leaves viewers feeling detached from the action.
Use of Technology
The play overuses video screens. The heavy reliance on technology creates a static feeling. This weakens emotions that should resonate with the audience. This is unlike other productions such as Sunset Boulevard. Here, cameras are used effectively to enhance storytelling. “Good Night, and Good Luck” does not adhere to the appropriate use of cameras.
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Conclusion of the Play
The play ends with a cautionary message from Murrow. This is about the role of television in society. He emphasizes that TV can educate and inspire. This is only if people choose to use it that way. Unfortunately, George Clooney and Heslov make a concluding point too forcefully. They include a montage of TV history that feels excessive. This starts from Lucille Ball to current events. These include controversial trials such as O.J. Simpson’s trial.
