Writer: Reginald Rose
Director: Christopher Haydon
Bill Kenwright Ltd, have previous form for turning some of Hollywood’ highly acclaimed films into theatre productions. Over the years there have been stage adaptations of The Exorcist and Rain Man which have had a live theatrical run.
Undoubtedly one of the biggest success stories both critically and commercially is the live adaptation of 12 Angry Men and on the basis of tonight’s production it’s easy to see why: superb acting, a solid gold script and a unique ambitious stage design make for an enthralling and entertaining night at the theatre.
In 1954 writer Reginald Rose crafted a television play based on his experience as juror during a manslaughter trial. In 1957 the teleplay was turned into a feature film starring Henry Fonda and Jack Klugman, the film regularly features in the American Film Institute top 100 list and is perfectly placed for a live theatrical adaptation.
Right from the gravity of the situation is thrust onto the audience as an unseen judge somberly informs the jury the task at hand, that they hold the life of a 16 year old boy in the palm of their hands. The boy is accused of murdering his father, if found guilty the boy will be executed. All 12 must agree on a verdict if not the case will be retried with a fresh set of jurors.
With the stakes so high the pressure is on, our jurors are not helped by it being the hottest day of the year in New York and some inadequate air conditioning. For 11 the boy is guilty as sin, however for Juror 8 things don’t quite add up. Soon Juror 8 becomes the one discerning voice, who just wants the assembled crew to have a conversation about the facts and compassion. Using logic, reasoning and compassion he soon manages to convince some jurors that this may not be as open and shut as they think. However, others members may prove tougher to crack with their own prejudices, bigotry and personal vendettas and clouding their judgement.
There is so much to admire about this production, from the intense opening to the sombre finale, we are treated to a master class in live theatre. The ensemble cast are in fine form. Jason Merrells is outstanding as Juror 8, a performance filled with humility and sensitivity. It’s a calm, measured turn as he conveys just what is at stake. This is in stark contrast to the performance of Tristan Gemmill whose Juror 3. Whilst there is no let up in the quality, Gemmill’s is a performance filled with hatred, rage and contempt. The two regularly spar with each other throughout trying to get the other jurors on to their way of thinking, which makes for captivating viewing.
Other notable performances come from Gray O’Brian, Michael Greco, Gary Webster, and Mark Heenehan. O’ Brian puts in a solid, nasty turn as foul, bigoted Juror 10. Whilst Greco brings some light relief as the wise-cracking, baseball loving Juror 7. Webster gives a no nonsense, yet compassionate turn as the hard working, blue-collar Juror 6. Whilst Heenehan, gives an understated but no less effective turn as Juror 4, the voice of reason for those wishing to pass a guilty verdict. All 13 cast members are watchable throughout, its credit to their talent and the superb direction of Christopher Haydon.
Despite being nearly 70 years old, Rose’s script still holds weight, sadly the themes and issues that feature still blight us today. Issues such as justice, inequality and prejudice are tackled in a sensitive thought provoking manner. One powerful scene sees one character launch into a racist diatribe, whilst two of his fellow jurors silently wash their hands is impactful and exceptionally well executed. Despite its weighty subject matter the script is punctured with moments of levity that are a welcome change of pace.
Setting the tone for the production is Michael Pavelka’s fabulous set and costume design. The costumes transport you to 1950’s New York city, whilst the single room setting adds to the claustrophobia. The deliberating table and chairs are placed on a slow revolve, which you don’t notice but puts every character at the heart of the story. In the final act the addition of a ceiling fan ratchets up the tension an extra notch, it’s only a tiny detail but just highlights how good this production is.
12 Angry Men is theatre at its finest, a classy, intelligent drama, superbly acted that looks fantastic. Highly entertaining and emotive.
Runs till 4th March 2024