LUCKY GUY at the Broadhurst Theatre

(Seen April 4, 2013)


The back-story of LUCKY GUY has more interest than the play itself.  A well-loved Nora Ephron wrote this play about an ordinary, plodding New York reporter who happened to get a scoop, which eventually won him a Pulitzer Prize in journalism.  Ephron died before the play was ready for production.  It's a mediocre work, but the many people who loved her, pursued the production of this play as a tribute to her memory.

Tom Hanks becomes the key to this project going forward.  It's unlikely that this lack-luster,  B-movie type material, would be here without his presence.  He plays the real-life reporter/columnist, Mike McAlary, in this unfolding docu-drama of the ups-and-downs in the life of a New York itinerant reporter.  He brings charm and charisma to a not particularly nice guy.  McAlary is chummy and congenial in his way, but always self-serving.  Because McAlary died of cancer at the age of 41, Ephron tugs at the heartstrings of the audience. 

But despite all the comradery and rivalries shown in various New York newsrooms, the audience doesn't really care about anyone but Hanks, not his role. They are here to see Hanks live, on stage --- and that's the bottom line.

Director George C> Wolfe keeps things moving swiftly and briskly, but there isn't too much he can do with this weak script.  The large supporting cast do well in their stereotypical roles.  It's a shame the material isn't up to their capabilities.