Misery - Keep the Light on

Please note this performance of Misery occurred during the show's previews, during which time the production may still be ironing out any issues ahead of its official opening night.

Best bit? Spoiler alert! Paul Sheldon misbehaves and as a result Annie Wilkes maimes him with a sledgehammer. The special effects are brilliant and the revolving stage released my inner theatre geek, just a little.

Any boring bits? No, I didn't feel disconnected at all, and as there was no intermission, I was gripped for the entire runtime!

Who would like it? It goes without saying that Misery will be appreciated by Stephen King fans who will love to see the story's revival. As a psychological thriller that has been cast well and staged wisely, it will be enjoyed by both a mature and younger crowd (although not too young to avoid nightmares). Oh yes, and Bruce Willis' die hard fans, pun intended.

Who wouldn't like it? If you are looking for a light, sing-along Broadway spectacular, this is not the show for you.

Morning after effect: Relieved that Bruce Willis was able to deliver a truthful and grounded performance.

Verdict: 4.5 stars

When we think of Bruce Willis our minds race to a fast paced action film in which he saves the world with one arm, whilst carrying a baby in the other. Therefore it's difficult to say the least to imagine the action hero confined to a stage with limited explosions, weapons and death-defying action.

As the curtain rises, we see a physically broken Willis confined to a bed - the audience daren't applaud as they wait on edge for his first line. This is his Broadway debut and he is evidentially focused and committed to his role as Paul Sheldon, a world famous novelist who has suffered a severe car accident. Willis spends most of the play in that same spot, and while his performance is right on point, the direction, staging, sound and lighting deserve equal praise.

Misery, based on the Stephen King novel and adapted into a film in 1990, launched the career of Kathy Bates and won her an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Annie Wilkes, writer Paul Sheldon's number one (deranged) fan. Bringing Annie back to life at the Broadhurst Theatre is Tony-nominee Laurie Metcalf. While Metcalf's character is animated and dramatic, Willis is more subdued and constantly calculating his next move. This is a difficult pendulum to play, which I am certain will only improve as they get closer to opening night.

The script is driven by suspense and yet the story has been imbued with a smooth playfulness by the performances and staging. Metcalf plays Annie Wilkes impeccably, moving the audience from empathy to terror, and pulling subtle strings that have you agreeing with her absurdity at times and then cringing for Sheldon's life moments later.

Luckily for Willis fans, he is still allowed his moment to prove his action hero strength lives on, as he navigates his character across the stage using, yes, one arm. His performance is believable, noble and consistent. The connection between Willis and Metcalfe has been delicately crafted and is charming to watch; as their cat and mouse series plays out the audience is captivated, shrieking and sighing on cue.

Applaud and praise must be given to director Will Frears, who makes his Broadway directorial debut. While some directors may crumble at the intimidation of working with two renowned actors, he rose to the challenge and has proven his talents. Misery makes for a thrilling night out on Broadway but if you are easily scared, be sure to watch the matinee to avoid a dark commute home.

Reviewed by Nicola Quinn

Sunday 1st November 2015
Broadhurst Theatre, New York City
Find me on Twitter: @newyorktheatre

View our show pages for more information about Misery, Broadhurst Theater.