If this sounds like a show you need to see, grab tickets at the link below: prf.hn/click/camref:1100lzG8P/destination:www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunset-boulevard/savoy-theatre/ P.S Make sure to skip through the video using the chapters in the description if you just want to hear the review itself, there's lots of context on this one!
Nope. BIG NOPE. I enjoyed the film, I enjoyed the original production, this is a massive mess/mistake and stupid. If I want to watch characters on a screen, I have the film. And at least the actors are not blocked. I have the same issue with crap seats at concerts, where to see anything, your're forced to watch huge screens. If i want to do that, i can stay home and watch the blu ray of the concerts/artist.
@@dfwjac 1st, in totality there is very little (genius but little) time that the actors are cast on a screen. While there is NO need to watch the screen when you do there is a raw exposure that every audience members gets to witness that is rarely seen in the theatre and NEVER seen in the movies. The genious of this production is the unfiltered raw and emotional highs and lows of Hollywood and the tole it takes on a human. There is no mistaking the amaing talent, and I am greateful to be able to witness it, because in this production there is nothing of farce (makeup, set, costumes) for the cast to hide behind.
Mickey, I'm becoming a true fan. Yes, you're extremely knowledgeable and informed; but, you're not merely a know-it-all, critic, who coldly and callously doles out his opinions with superiority and glibness. Your reviews are filled with reverence. And that very reverence which motivates your ovations also motivates your criticisms. You clearly WANT to love the shows you see! And you do, you convey such genuine joy! -There's not a hint of cynicism, even when you really object to something. - Please don't EVER lose that! - Five stars to you, my friend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Seen it with both Nicole and Rachel now - endless standing ovations. Both were extraordinary and brought different things to the role - Nicole is more vulnerable, Rachel plays it more sinister. It's an incredible show, probably the best bit of theatre I've ever seen. Can't wait to go again. My only annoyance was the theatre selling popcorn - and having to hear people chug it down while Nicole is signing and bearing her soul on stage.
I've seen it 3 times, two with Nicole and I just saw Rachel's debut this week. I honestly can't get enough of it! I saw the first preview and I will never forget the shock in the audience at the top of the second act during Sunset Blvd. It was one of my most memorable moments in a theatre. The first preview had 3 standing ovations! Rachel's Norma was equally as impressive as Nicole's, but I won't say much more as I don't want to spoil it!
I saw 9 shows on my recent trip to London and this by far was the best. I'm a big fan of the original lavish production, but this dark gritty reinterpretation was out of this word. The orchestrations alone are worth the ticket price, but this manic and narcissistic performance by Nicole as Norma left me speechless (in a good way). The entire production felt very modern in this online/social media world we live in. The harsh reality of Hollywood couldn't be better depicted. The supporting roles for Joe and Max also a standout. Treat yourself and see this production
I travelled to London from Australia recently to see a heap of shows. I was absolutely blown away by this production. The entire cast give so much in every performance. Great video as always @mickeyJoTheatre Nicole was absolutely sensational.
Artie’s face on the big screen as his fiancé and best friend come together in an act of betrayal was a highlight for me. I’m sure a single tear fell from his eye or maybe I just imagined it. ❤ also I would like to applaud the ensemble as the quality of their singing was extraordinary, haven’t heard choral singing that good since Sweeney on Broadway.
i saw the opening night of this, because I was going to be conducting a version in Australia in 2024, that production got cancelled, but loved Nicole's performance. Loved the orchestra sound, the lush strings sounded amazing.
I love all the motifs that have been coming through Jamie’s work recently… The un-micing when a character has nothing more to say/dies… Also captivated by the notion of leaving of the realm of the theatre e.g. Joe at the start of Act 2, Jessica Chastain’s Nora at the end of A Doll’s House. Every direction feels so rich with meaning and intention.
I’m still buzzing from seeing it yesterday. Nicole Sherzinger and Tom Francis- wow. I don’t suppose there’ll be a recording at some stage… I cried a little at the end. It was so moving..
Spot on review! I agree with everything you said. I was completely blown away by this production. The performances of Nicole as Norma and David Thaxton as Max were standouts. I went to see it a second time this week and enjoyed it even more.
So thrilled to know that the original ending of One Look has been restored!! I've never claimed that descending mod with Glenn's version. If it's good enough for Barbra (who actually sang/recorded it first) and Patti then it's good enough for me.
Your review was definitely worth the wait and the show sounds completely extraordinary. When the announcement about Nicole Scherzinger was made, I was absolutely convinced she would be amazing. It was an opportunity for her to really show what she can do and there was no way she wouldn’t really go for it-heart and soul. I completely agree that Jamie Lloyd needs to work with a completely new production, it would allow his amazing insight and imagination to go even further without the constraints of existing material. All in all, a wonderful review and I sincerely hope all those who were so dismissive of any kind of retelling, will be open to getting their minds blown.
Jessica Chastain is a Juilliard trained actress who had success on Broadway years before finding success on film!! I saw her in “Salome” in 2006 opposite Al Pacino and she was amazing.
Fabulous review, I just got back from London and seeing the show, it was a transformative experience. It’s fitting you had so many notes, I came out with my mind crazy with thoughts, too many to list here, but I’ll say, I know the original show and don’t think I ever realized how much the show is about damaged people, finding each other. You’d think it would be obvious, but there was something so clear here about the relentless machine of Hollywood beating on these people for ever and you see them gravitating towards each other, leaning on each other, almost like Hollywood was a drug addiction and these people are the consequences of all that abuse. There was a brilliant moment at the end of act 1, when Joe comes back and he resigns to this relationship, and he reaches out and holds Norma’s hand. Similar to the leads in the latest Sweeney on Broadway, in the last moment when they hold each other’s hand. It’s like, I know you’re crazy, and I’m crazy, but we’re each other’s crazy. There was this great love and vulnerability in that moment, it deeply moved me. I will also say, I think like the best revivals (ie, the last Oklahoma) I felt like Jamie Lloyd was able to dig in so deep and pull out these incredible themes and nuances that were always there but maybe hidden by production. I think Sunset Blvd was a valid candidate for the exploration, and this production definitely elevated the material by fully considerations everything that was already there. And I know you note Jamie Lloyd doesn’t touch the scores in the musicals he produces, but Lloyd Webber’s score has never been better than here - LOUD, punchy, sharp, dangerous- it almost felt like raw emotions that could almost overwhelm everything around it. It unleashed the score I think, it felt like Lloyd Webber almost at his rawest - and that’s just in the playing of it. I always felt the show was accomplished, but a bit cold and detached, I’m never really been able to connect to it completely. Here - it was an emotionally overwhelming experience.
Betty Buckley also got standing ovations for those two songs at the minscoff theater. Saw it once then took others two more times and she didn't have the vocal lowered
No one close to Buckley. Glenn Close played it like a clown show. Brightman is doing it in Australia now and it’s purely stunt casting, she’s awful as well.
I literally gasped and had goosebumps all over when they first used the camera and screen. It was such a fresh idea and adds so much to the show, because it’s about film. In Bat Out of Hell, for example, it just didn’t add anything. It was so out of place. The close ups and facial expressions etc are so amazing to see it so huge. I thought it was genius to add it to this show. I also loved it was all black and white except for the blood and the titles. Nicole was absolutely sensational!! I loved how she made fun of herself too. It added to the madness of Norma to me. She was so dedicated to the character. And yes I thought she was going to run out of breath on that note she held for forever and still went on! Wow wow wow!!! The orchestra sounded so amazing as well. I think there were about 18-20 people in the pit. Goosebumps moments all the time because of this. Was the cardboard Andrew LW there too? 😅 The use of haze was so cool as well. It almost felt like a storm going on when it was turned on to full blast and you lost everything else around Norma. I would really go see it again!!
I saw the original west end production with Petula Clark, and then went back a week later when Rita Moreno took over - both were amazing and brought something unique to the pathos of Norma. Can't say I'm ever seen quite that hunky a Joe Gillis - hubba hubba hubba!
No need to apologize about the length of the vlog. You packed in so much wonderful information about the production, the director and the principle players. Hope it comes to Broadway.
OK, it just transferred over to the US and opened in preview Saturday night. I have not seen it yet. I've only heard the first 40 minutes and let me tell you Nicole tears it up. What a voice. I can't wait to see the show this week I work on it so I will be able to see it several times audiences went ballistic after with one look and rightly so.
Finally saw the show last night - I have never been more grateful for one of your reviews. I have seen some wonderful productions on the back of your opinion, but Sunset is one of my fave shows and decided to try this reimagined version. Mind blown - I loved every single aspect of this completely modern adaptation.. the video was so powerful. Acting incredible. Singing omg .. thanks so much. Anyone out there who loves the music and the classic telling of sunset - give it a go. I’ve literally booked to go again. Pure genius.
I was waiting to see your reaction to the opening of act 2. I had my jaw on the floor for that part, i spent ages trying to work out the logistics to make that work and make sure he has the orchestra and his voice is captured with a little background noise as possible. Just incredible. Most amazing thing I've seen
I’ve been a fan of Nicole’s for longer than she’s been a big star, she’s so incredibly talented. So I’m thrilled the world is finally seeing what she can do. Hope it comes stateside so I can finally encounter her in person.
Rejoice it is going to Broadway next year , nice so I catch watch it again without traveling to London . Saw this show twice at the Savoy and I can assure everyone that it is so beguiling and epic in presentation that you will clamor to see it again and again .Truly Nicole’s Norma is so expressive and raw and her version is her very own , rich vocals and the way is he acted it out was mind blowing and mesmerizing .
I went to see it for Tom Francis and was blown away by Nicole. I’m excited to see what she does in Death Becomes Her the musical coming in April! Great video, you have a wonderful way of being informative and captivating when sharing your thoughts on different productions. 💜
There is no official casting on that show am not sure whether Nicole will appear in DBH if ghetto is a conflicting schedule when SB hits Broadway next year .Nicole will definitely choose SB over DBH .
There was a limited run of this musical recently at the Kennedy Center with Stephanie J. Block playing Norma and I really wanted to go!! Hope I can someday see this musical!
Saw it on Monday with the exceptional Rachel Tucker and a companion who had absolutely no clue what was happening having never seen or heard it before - there’s minimal and then there’s no context at all. I had to explain it to him at the interval. He was especially confused during the scene where they switch between “old” and “young” Norma, as the “young” Norma actor looks v like Nicole but not at all like Rachel! Broke the immersion for me too. Otherwise an excellent show, the tech feats so impressive - no lag between sound and vision at all. Tom Francis deserves all the plaudits, so much stage time, climbing a million stairs while singing beautifully - an excellent performance. Lovely to see John Barrowman in the audience too, my first Joe (very meta given the themes of the show).
Wow! What a commentary, this is an outstanding review! You totally deserve social media pay outs, most people don’t! You are stand out- thank you! Also you need to get touted, a deserved talent! Please, someone grab him now 🎉❤🎉❤
I took me a while to get into this. Some aspects I adored but I kept having Glenn Closes performance and Anthony Powells costume designs in my head but it’s fair to say this is such a different experience that it’s in its own lane. It’s such a fabulous performance and show
@@PS-DLMA Yes, and plenty of Brits could have played the role in the West End version. They'll all get their chance when Sarah and Nicole have completed their runs.
There's a fantastic documentary on TH-cam that is all about the making of that production. It's such a great making-of film and it's touching to see famous people before they were famous. It's fun to see Hugh Jackman before he was a big name, and it just has such a nice overall feel to it. I recommend watching it.
I saw this production, this was after he was Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. They were both amazing productions.. now we have Sarah Brightman coming out to play Norma... I'm sure this will be a very vanilla production..
@@gavindean6708 if Caroline OConnor wasnt coming to Adelaide to be the Old Lady in State Theatre/SOSAs joint prod of Candide she would have been brilliant as Norma
@@PS-DLMA 100 percent.. I’m going to Sydney to see Nancy Hayes in A Little Night Music.. at the Hayes theatre. Can’t wait.. Saw spelling bee there a month ago.. and Miss Saigon at the opera house.. both amazing productions.. Don’t tell me I have to come to Adelaide now as well!!!
The way I saw a Tiktok of the moment you talked about and thought it was a bit of filming for a TV slot or promo. They do that EVERY NIGHT ?!? Madness !!!!!!! I love it 😂😍
Thanks for the review! What in intelligent decision to revamp this show entirely. I'm middle-aged and saw this show during the original Glenn Close run in LA. While the show was "supposed" to feel 1940s, it had a distinct 1990s aura that would come off as really dated today. And we never really believed that there was sexual energy between Joe and Norma...until NOW!
Apart from the ageism displayed by the producers/writers in changing Desmond's age from 50 to 40, this was excellent. I highly recommend it. A bit more in the way of wardrobe wouldn't have harmed them.
Ok just that curtain call makes me wish I could get to the UK to see this The instrumental piece behind the car chase toward the beginning has always been my favourite thing ALW has penned, btw
@@MickeyJoTheatre - I would imagine Derek Klena would be playing Joe, if it transfers to Broadway. He portrayed the character at the Kennedy Center.
When you started talking about the cameras I thought about a production of Hamlet I've seen where they used cameras, and also had him do his famous monologue while walking around the theatre and going out to the street. Interesting how they did something so similar in this production!
I was avoiding watching your video until I’d seen it myself, and oh my gosh you said everything I was thinking! I just couldn’t get past how dreadful Betty’s costume was, the other leads were all plain yet timeless, but she looked like she’d just come out of rehearsal at Pineapple in 2015… WHY!? The socks!! Also I hated Nicole’s very modern, silly references like when she said “let me worry about the monaaayyyy hunnayyyy” and the clicks and faces- and HATED Max having a PCD poster in the dressing room, all cheap gags in an otherwise flawless show that really didn’t require them! But all in all I absolutely loved it and thought Nicole’s performance was probably the best I’ve ever seen ✨✨✨
Yeah I thought Betty's outfit was really poor - hers and Artie's. I didn't mind the monochrome minimalist look too much, just their specific costumes were distractingly bad.
I saw “A Doll’s House” last year and think Lloyd with this material is quite intriguing so I hope it comes stateside (with Aaron Tveit or Jeremy Jordan as Joe)
I’m back after having seen it on Broadway twice and already have tix for the third! I’ve never seen anything like this production. There are several shows I’ve seen more than once, but every moment isn’t seared into my mind like this one is. And I cannot stop thinking about it. I’d basically be repeating everything you said, but this production is everything everyone said it is and more (especially Nicole!). And it is going to stay with me for a very, very long time.
Fun fact about Nicole when you talk about how she's meant for Theater. She went to Youth Performing Arts School (for highschool) in Louisville, my hometown (of which my sister is also an alumni), so not surprised she's doing well! That training was early.
The only thing I will say about Tom as Joe sitting down before Nicole goes into her scene discussing Salome, is the representation of power and hierarchy within the group. Although it is most likely played for laughs, I personally see it as Nicole’s Norma really establishing an immediate dominance upon Joe and her eventual emotional control over his material and eventual life upon the end. It shows the audience the first hints into her original dominance on the picture career and how unhinged it has made her recently.
I can somehow see Nicole Scherzinger in the role of Norma Desmond, but here in Australia, I've just learnt a few days ago that Sarah Brightman will be reviving the role of Norma Desmond! I don't quite know how to feel about that - I hope she surprises me, that's all I can say for now.
@@iseley To be fair, I think Sarah Brightman is a surprising choice because of her voice type. Norma is a mezzo belter, whereas Brightman is a soprano. Brightman could belt to some extent back in the eighties, but I wonder if she is able to sing this role in the traditional style - or will she sing it in a more operatic style?
@@iseleyI mean, ALW is literally having to reorchestrate the show to suit her range, so I think it’s a reasonable position. As a fellow Aussie, I’d personally be much more interested in seeing this adaptation. We already had our big glitzy staging, with Debra Byrne and Hugh Jackman before he was famous.
Sarah Brightman is the one person I'd love to see play Norma. I saw her play the original Christine and she was mesmerising, and enjoyed her career since...I think you are in for a treat.
Talking about With One Look, the song actually starts in A Major and in both Patti Lupone’s and Glenn Close’s versions, the key changes to D Major at the instrumental part… Lupone stays in that key until the end while Close modulated down to B Major. Nicole’s version is a different story because even though she started in the same A Major key, they transposed her song to C Major at the instrumental part and she remained in that key until the end. So while it is true that she didn’t modulate down with the last “with one look…” like what Close did, her actual transposition is different and lower than Lupone’s. Didn’t make her version any less than Lupone’s, though. Nicole’s version was still stunning I my honest opinion that it almost brought me to tears. When I saw the show in September, Nicole did blew me away that she stayed in key in the whole ending part, but only after I listened to all 3 versions again that I learned that they all ended differently, actually… :)
The modulation in With One Look is still there…it’s just in a different place. This version modulates to a different (and lower) key than even the Patti version after the lyrics “still out there in the dark.”
Seeing it next week and I'm very excited! Usually I don't really enjoy these kind of stripped down, "modern" productions but I'll try to be open minded!
It was during the choruses I was reminded "oh yeah it's Andrew Lloyd Webber", gave me Cats and Joseph the Amazing Technicolor vibes - just saw it with Scherzinger on Broadway, WOW! Amazing!
Do you think this adaptation would work for an audience member who hasn’t seen /listened to Sunset before? A lot of the rave reviews seem to have centred on how different this is - and I’m definitely excited to see it for that reason! - but do you think it’ll still work for an audience member who, without set and props, can’t ‘fill in the blanks’ as far as the story goes?
I took my Mum to opening night who had not seen any version of SB. I had been to the 1993 West End production so new the story. My mother said she was lost because of the lack of visual cues and had to watch the film to understand the story (ITVX) Others may have got it mind....
I saw it yesterday having never seen or listened to Sunset Boulevard previously and I thought it was absolutely incredible. I didn’t struggle to follow the plot, and if you’ve seen this review you already know a lot more than I did 😊 Highly recommend!
Thank you both! I’ve seen it twice (the Kathryn Evans revival directed by Craig Revel Horwood and the Glenn Close concert at the Coliseum) - but am taking a friend with no knowledge of the show. So this is useful feedback!
I get your point about the chorus not necessarily being necessary & you just wanted to get on with the his/her scenes but, you have to remember, it was originally written that way to enable scene changes (eg. from house to Paramount) & for the actor playing Norma to change into a different costume.
Nicole's training was in theatre so all of this tracks!!! I am looking forward to her getting "her flowers" on this side of the pond following the transfer to Broadway :)
I really enjoyed this review! Being a silly American, I'll probably never get to see this production. From what you describe, it really sounds like this particular production invites comparision. I'm totally digging the black and white asthetic-- Wilder could have easily shot the film in color but intentionally did it in black and white. I know that's probably out of your wheelhouse, but the conversation between the original film and this production could be ripe for interesting interpretation. Thank you for discussing the monkey. My critical theory addeled brain is obsessed with the monkey. Truly enjoy your work!
Just saw this finally, truly insane production - the Sunset Boulevard scene had me like 😱😱😱 hadn’t wanted to see it until started seeing the raves but really glad I went, truly an amazing theatre experience! Though I’m not a big fan of the Savoy balcony, it’s a bit scary trying to get past people with that rake
I'm waiting to see if/when someone captures the "behind-the-scenes" moment happening each night at the start of the second act. Like a theater fan who has seen it and knows the timing, and one night just waits for the action to begin from the stage door and films it (naturally from a distance, and without interrupting anything). If I lived there, I sure would love to see Tom Francis do that walk on multiple occasions. 😅
Excellent review! I saw it last week with Rachel Tucker, exceptional! I want to see Nicole top but I realised she is filming masked singer USA. Wonder when she is back 😪
Ahhh I've been waiting for your review since I went to see it in September! Can't wait to hear your thoughts! Edit: Totally agree with your thoughts. I have literally thought about this show every day since I saw it! I can't wait to try and go and see Rachel Tucker as Norma to see how the show changes. Also, I literally stood outside the theatre on Saturday to see if the Act 2 opener really was live, as like you said, it has to be seen to be believed, and I can confirm he really is walking round outside and singing. My mind was blown by this whole production.
one thing that did disappoint me, was that they didn't do the usual ending of 'Too Much In Love To Care' as they chose a lower ending, and I felt like the song petered out rather than having the big ending it usually does. Not sure what the decision would've been behind this but it was still beautiful.
The use of onstage live camera feeds reminds me very much of Headlong's _1984._ It was very effective there, I wouldn't be surprised if it was very effective here. Interestingly, in the 1922 _Salome_ the title role was played by Alla Nazimova, who was 44 at the time. I wonder if that was partly inspiration for Norma Desmond being certain that she could play 16. And to be fair, Nazimova did pull it off.
I don't know that much of the show(apart from see this review) but I'm going to see the show in Sydney with Sarah Brightman. It's probably going to be expensive bc it's ALW & then also a big cast member from overseas. Can't wait though.
Sunset Boulevard is one of my favorite movies of all time, Im genuinely glad that the musical seems to be great, so im excited (though im not really into Andrew Lloyd Webber's music very much)
If this sounds like a show you need to see, grab tickets at the link below:
prf.hn/click/camref:1100lzG8P/destination:www.atgtickets.com/shows/sunset-boulevard/savoy-theatre/
P.S Make sure to skip through the video using the chapters in the description if you just want to hear the review itself, there's lots of context on this one!
How did Norma (Nicole/Rachel) kill Joe in this production of Sunset
Nope. BIG NOPE. I enjoyed the film, I enjoyed the original production, this is a massive mess/mistake and stupid. If I want to watch characters on a screen, I have the film. And at least the actors are not blocked. I have the same issue with crap seats at concerts, where to see anything, your're forced to watch huge screens. If i want to do that, i can stay home and watch the blu ray of the concerts/artist.
@@dfwjac 1st, in totality there is very little (genius but little) time that the actors are cast on a screen. While there is NO need to watch the screen when you do there is a raw exposure that every audience members gets to witness that is rarely seen in the theatre and NEVER seen in the movies. The genious of this production is the unfiltered raw and emotional highs and lows of Hollywood and the tole it takes on a human. There is no mistaking the amaing talent, and I am greateful to be able to witness it, because in this production there is nothing of farce (makeup, set, costumes) for the cast to hide behind.
Mickey, I'm becoming a true fan. Yes, you're extremely knowledgeable and informed; but, you're not merely a know-it-all, critic, who coldly and callously doles out his opinions with superiority and glibness. Your reviews are filled with reverence. And that very reverence which motivates your ovations also motivates your criticisms. You clearly WANT to love the shows you see! And you do, you convey such genuine joy! -There's not a hint of cynicism, even when you really object to something. - Please don't EVER lose that! - Five stars to you, my friend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Seen it with both Nicole and Rachel now - endless standing ovations. Both were extraordinary and brought different things to the role - Nicole is more vulnerable, Rachel plays it more sinister. It's an incredible show, probably the best bit of theatre I've ever seen. Can't wait to go again. My only annoyance was the theatre selling popcorn - and having to hear people chug it down while Nicole is signing and bearing her soul on stage.
Flew all the way from New York to see Nicole on Thanksgiving day. I cried throughout 🥹🥹🥹 She slayed!!! thank you for your thoughtful review!!!!
Nicole is brilliant!! All the accolades are truly deserved 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
I've seen it 3 times, two with Nicole and I just saw Rachel's debut this week. I honestly can't get enough of it! I saw the first preview and I will never forget the shock in the audience at the top of the second act during Sunset Blvd. It was one of my most memorable moments in a theatre. The first preview had 3 standing ovations! Rachel's Norma was equally as impressive as Nicole's, but I won't say much more as I don't want to spoil it!
I saw 9 shows on my recent trip to London and this by far was the best. I'm a big fan of the original lavish production, but this dark gritty reinterpretation was out of this word. The orchestrations alone are worth the ticket price, but this manic and narcissistic performance by Nicole as Norma left me speechless (in a good way). The entire production felt very modern in this online/social media world we live in. The harsh reality of Hollywood couldn't be better depicted. The supporting roles for Joe and Max also a standout. Treat yourself and see this production
I travelled to London from Australia recently to see a heap of shows. I was absolutely blown away by this production. The entire cast give so much in every performance. Great video as always @mickeyJoTheatre Nicole was absolutely sensational.
Artie’s face on the big screen as his fiancé and best friend come together in an act of betrayal was a highlight for me. I’m sure a single tear fell from his eye or maybe I just imagined it. ❤ also I would like to applaud the ensemble as the quality of their singing was extraordinary, haven’t heard choral singing that good since Sweeney on Broadway.
It was real! AmazIng performances all round.
This tear stained Artie image is actually a meme, connecting today's youth's silent storytelling to classic silent film imaging.
i saw the opening night of this, because I was going to be conducting a version in Australia in 2024, that production got cancelled, but loved Nicole's performance. Loved the orchestra sound, the lush strings sounded amazing.
In the act 2 opening sequence Nicole also writes 'mad about the boy' on the mirror, a nod to the cigarette case that's cut from the show
Her acting in that final scene is amazing -- the blood & that crazed look.
I love all the motifs that have been coming through Jamie’s work recently… The un-micing when a character has nothing more to say/dies… Also captivated by the notion of leaving of the realm of the theatre e.g. Joe at the start of Act 2, Jessica Chastain’s Nora at the end of A Doll’s House. Every direction feels so rich with meaning and intention.
Ahhhh yes, I neglected to mention the un-micing, I so agree about its symbolism!
Whats unmicing?
@@taliakrimsky7157Taking off or disconnecting that performer’s microphone
I’m still buzzing from seeing it yesterday. Nicole Sherzinger and Tom Francis- wow. I don’t suppose there’ll be a recording at some stage…
I cried a little at the end. It was so moving..
Spot on review! I agree with everything you said. I was completely blown away by this production. The performances of Nicole as Norma and David Thaxton as Max were standouts. I went to see it a second time this week and enjoyed it even more.
So thrilled to know that the original ending of One Look has been restored!! I've never claimed that descending mod with Glenn's version. If it's good enough for Barbra (who actually sang/recorded it first) and Patti then it's good enough for me.
Your review was definitely worth the wait and the show sounds completely extraordinary. When the announcement about Nicole Scherzinger was made, I was absolutely convinced she would be amazing. It was an opportunity for her to really show what she can do and there was no way she wouldn’t really go for it-heart and soul.
I completely agree that Jamie Lloyd needs to work with a completely new production, it would allow his amazing insight and imagination to go even further without the constraints of existing material.
All in all, a wonderful review and I sincerely hope all those who were so dismissive of any kind of retelling, will be open to getting their minds blown.
My life is officially divided into before and after Jamie Lloyd's Sunset Blvd.
I wish I could hop on plane and go see this. It sounds fantastic.
Jessica Chastain is a Juilliard trained actress who had success on Broadway years before finding success on film!! I saw her in “Salome” in 2006 opposite Al Pacino and she was amazing.
Could have happily watched an hour long review & thoroughly enjoyed hearing your thoughts..
Ah thank you!
Well said - agreed.
Fabulous review, I just got back from London and seeing the show, it was a transformative experience. It’s fitting you had so many notes, I came out with my mind crazy with thoughts, too many to list here, but I’ll say, I know the original show and don’t think I ever realized how much the show is about damaged people, finding each other. You’d think it would be obvious, but there was something so clear here about the relentless machine of Hollywood beating on these people for ever and you see them gravitating towards each other, leaning on each other, almost like Hollywood was a drug addiction and these people are the consequences of all that abuse. There was a brilliant moment at the end of act 1, when Joe comes back and he resigns to this relationship, and he reaches out and holds Norma’s hand. Similar to the leads in the latest Sweeney on Broadway, in the last moment when they hold each other’s hand. It’s like, I know you’re crazy, and I’m crazy, but we’re each other’s crazy. There was this great love and vulnerability in that moment, it deeply moved me. I will also say, I think like the best revivals (ie, the last Oklahoma) I felt like Jamie Lloyd was able to dig in so deep and pull out these incredible themes and nuances that were always there but maybe hidden by production. I think Sunset Blvd was a valid candidate for the exploration, and this production definitely elevated the material by fully considerations everything that was already there. And I know you note Jamie Lloyd doesn’t touch the scores in the musicals he produces, but Lloyd Webber’s score has never been better than here - LOUD, punchy, sharp, dangerous- it almost felt like raw emotions that could almost overwhelm everything around it. It unleashed the score I think, it felt like Lloyd Webber almost at his rawest - and that’s just in the playing of it. I always felt the show was accomplished, but a bit cold and detached, I’m never really been able to connect to it completely. Here - it was an emotionally overwhelming experience.
Betty Buckley also got standing ovations for those two songs at the minscoff theater. Saw it once then took others two more times and she didn't have the vocal lowered
She was amazing!
I saw her in the West End production. She had such a vibrant energy!
No one close to Buckley. Glenn Close played it like a clown show. Brightman is doing it in Australia now and it’s purely stunt casting, she’s awful as well.
Ugh this was one of the coolest productions of anything I have ever seen
I literally gasped and had goosebumps all over when they first used the camera and screen. It was such a fresh idea and adds so much to the show, because it’s about film.
In Bat Out of Hell, for example, it just didn’t add anything. It was so out of place.
The close ups and facial expressions etc are so amazing to see it so huge. I thought it was genius to add it to this show. I also loved it was all black and white except for the blood and the titles.
Nicole was absolutely sensational!! I loved how she made fun of herself too. It added to the madness of Norma to me. She was so dedicated to the character. And yes I thought she was going to run out of breath on that note she held for forever and still went on! Wow wow wow!!!
The orchestra sounded so amazing as well. I think there were about 18-20 people in the pit. Goosebumps moments all the time because of this.
Was the cardboard Andrew LW there too? 😅
The use of haze was so cool as well. It almost felt like a storm going on when it was turned on to full blast and you lost everything else around Norma.
I would really go see it again!!
I saw the original west end production with Petula Clark, and then went back a week later when Rita Moreno took over - both were amazing and brought something unique to the pathos of Norma. Can't say I'm ever seen quite that hunky a Joe Gillis - hubba hubba hubba!
I saw this! It was amazing! I'm so happy that it's moving to Broadway!!
I have been deliberatly avoiding other reviews until yours came out! excited to hear all of your thoughts!!
No need to apologize about the length of the vlog. You packed in so much wonderful information about the production, the director and the principle players. Hope it comes to Broadway.
I’ve been waiting for this review!!! Need to see it again. It was simply the best west end show I’ve seen ever. And I’ve seen tons of
OK, it just transferred over to the US and opened in preview Saturday night. I have not seen it yet. I've only heard the first 40 minutes and let me tell you Nicole tears it up. What a voice. I can't wait to see the show this week I work on it so I will be able to see it several times audiences went ballistic after with one look and rightly so.
Finally saw the show last night - I have never been more grateful for one of your reviews. I have seen some wonderful productions on the back of your opinion, but Sunset is one of my fave shows and decided to try this reimagined version. Mind blown - I loved every single aspect of this completely modern adaptation.. the video was so powerful. Acting incredible. Singing omg .. thanks so much. Anyone out there who loves the music and the classic telling of sunset - give it a go. I’ve literally booked to go again. Pure genius.
Absolutely loved it! Saw one of the last previews! Incredible!!! ❤
I was waiting to see your reaction to the opening of act 2. I had my jaw on the floor for that part, i spent ages trying to work out the logistics to make that work and make sure he has the orchestra and his voice is captured with a little background noise as possible. Just incredible. Most amazing thing I've seen
I’ve been a fan of Nicole’s for longer than she’s been a big star, she’s so incredibly talented. So I’m thrilled the world is finally seeing what she can do. Hope it comes stateside so I can finally encounter her in person.
Rejoice it is going to Broadway next year , nice so I catch watch it again without traveling to London . Saw this show twice at the Savoy and I can assure everyone that it is so beguiling and epic in presentation that you will clamor to see it again and again .Truly Nicole’s Norma is so expressive and raw and her version is her very own , rich vocals and the way is he acted it out was mind blowing and mesmerizing .
I went to see it for Tom Francis and was blown away by Nicole. I’m excited to see what she does in Death Becomes Her the musical coming in April! Great video, you have a wonderful way of being informative and captivating when sharing your thoughts on different productions. 💜
Has she been cast opposite Megan Hilty?
@@paultoseland9524it’ll be Jennifer Simard. I wonder if Nicole is the one that gives the potion?
There is no official casting on that show am not sure whether Nicole will appear in DBH if ghetto is a conflicting schedule when SB hits Broadway next year .Nicole will definitely choose SB over DBH .
Oh wow I didnt know that ill keep an eye on it
This is quite an interesting review. I remember Sunset Boulevard in Toronto with Diahann Carrol and I never thought it could be reimagined this way!
There was a limited run of this musical recently at the Kennedy Center with Stephanie J. Block playing Norma and I really wanted to go!! Hope I can someday see this musical!
Saw it on Monday with the exceptional Rachel Tucker and a companion who had absolutely no clue what was happening having never seen or heard it before - there’s minimal and then there’s no context at all. I had to explain it to him at the interval. He was especially confused during the scene where they switch between “old” and “young” Norma, as the “young” Norma actor looks v like Nicole but not at all like Rachel! Broke the immersion for me too. Otherwise an excellent show, the tech feats so impressive - no lag between sound and vision at all. Tom Francis deserves all the plaudits, so much stage time, climbing a million stairs while singing beautifully - an excellent performance. Lovely to see John Barrowman in the audience too, my first Joe (very meta given the themes of the show).
The Friends episode about the dance routine is one of my favorites. Thanks for the reference!
This edition of Sunset BLV is absolutely wonderful.
Nicole's performance is absolutely phenomenal.
Anyone who has seen that video to Nicole Scherzinger singing Don't Cry For Me Argentina knew this was going to be sensational
Wow! What a commentary, this is an outstanding review! You totally deserve social media pay outs, most people don’t! You are stand out- thank you! Also you need to get touted, a deserved talent! Please, someone grab him now 🎉❤🎉❤
I took me a while to get into this. Some aspects I adored but I kept having Glenn Closes performance and Anthony Powells costume designs in my head but it’s fair to say this is such a different experience that it’s in its own lane. It’s such a fabulous performance and show
Would love to see this! Any thoughts about Sarah Brightman in a new Australian Production? Thank you for this great review, hopefully I can get there.
Plenty of Aussies could have taken on the role....
@@PS-DLMA Yes, and plenty of Brits could have played the role in the West End version. They'll all get their chance when Sarah and Nicole have completed their runs.
@@iseley doubt it will extend down under
Nor will it extend in the West End - the theatre is blocked for Plaza Suite. Might come back at some later point, though, like Cyrano.
Fun fact - Hugh Jackman was Australia's original Joe.
There's a fantastic documentary on TH-cam that is all about the making of that production. It's such a great making-of film and it's touching to see famous people before they were famous. It's fun to see Hugh Jackman before he was a big name, and it just has such a nice overall feel to it. I recommend watching it.
@@christophercobb249 i have :) its just amazing it was only his second professional role
I saw this production, this was after he was Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. They were both amazing productions.. now we have Sarah Brightman coming out to play Norma... I'm sure this will be a very vanilla production..
@@gavindean6708 if Caroline OConnor wasnt coming to Adelaide to be the Old Lady in State Theatre/SOSAs joint prod of Candide she would have been brilliant as Norma
@@PS-DLMA 100 percent.. I’m going to Sydney to see Nancy Hayes in A Little Night Music.. at the Hayes theatre. Can’t wait.. Saw spelling bee there a month ago.. and Miss Saigon at the opera house.. both amazing productions.. Don’t tell me I have to come to Adelaide now as well!!!
I really hope this tours! If so, would love to know when the casting process starts to audition!
I’m excited for this review. I hope they bring it over to nyc. I would love to see a new version
The way I saw a Tiktok of the moment you talked about and thought it was a bit of filming for a TV slot or promo. They do that EVERY NIGHT ?!? Madness !!!!!!! I love it 😂😍
LINK PLEASE!!!!!!
Thanks for the review! What in intelligent decision to revamp this show entirely. I'm middle-aged and saw this show during the original Glenn Close run in LA. While the show was "supposed" to feel 1940s, it had a distinct 1990s aura that would come off as really dated today. And we never really believed that there was sexual energy between Joe and Norma...until NOW!
Very fun that because you didn't make it to press night we ended up going on the same night! I completely agree with everything you said too!
She is totally flawless
Apart from the ageism displayed by the producers/writers in changing Desmond's age from 50 to 40, this was excellent. I highly recommend it.
A bit more in the way of wardrobe wouldn't have harmed them.
Ok just that curtain call makes me wish I could get to the UK to see this
The instrumental piece behind the car chase toward the beginning has always been my favourite thing ALW has penned, btw
Just saw Merrily today. You were right...WONDERFUL!!!
SO glad you got to see it and enjoyed! I'm hearing lots of exciting plans for this revival...
Sounds like an incredible production. Any speculation on a Broadway transfer?
There's lots of buzz already about it heading stateside - if I was a betting man my money would be on the Hudson after Merrily.
@@MickeyJoTheatre - I would imagine Derek Klena would be playing Joe, if it transfers to Broadway. He portrayed the character at the Kennedy Center.
Danke!
When you started talking about the cameras I thought about a production of Hamlet I've seen where they used cameras, and also had him do his famous monologue while walking around the theatre and going out to the street. Interesting how they did something so similar in this production!
They used cameras in the tour of Bat Out Of Hell Musical moving round on stage with it and it projected on a screen so it made me think of that .
I was avoiding watching your video until I’d seen it myself, and oh my gosh you said everything I was thinking! I just couldn’t get past how dreadful Betty’s costume was, the other leads were all plain yet timeless, but she looked like she’d just come out of rehearsal at Pineapple in 2015… WHY!? The socks!! Also I hated Nicole’s very modern, silly references like when she said “let me worry about the monaaayyyy hunnayyyy” and the clicks and faces- and HATED Max having a PCD poster in the dressing room, all cheap gags in an otherwise flawless show that really didn’t require them! But all in all I absolutely loved it and thought Nicole’s performance was probably the best I’ve ever seen ✨✨✨
Yeah I thought Betty's outfit was really poor - hers and Artie's. I didn't mind the monochrome minimalist look too much, just their specific costumes were distractingly bad.
Saw it on Saturday....omg I loved it!!! Cast are amazing, need to see it again with Rachel on :)
I saw “A Doll’s House” last year and think Lloyd with this material is quite intriguing so I hope it comes stateside (with Aaron Tveit or Jeremy Jordan as Joe)
Love the long review
Thanks for the review. Would love to hear what you thought of Here We Are. I went back to see it again
I'm getting from what you say Olivier Award vibes.
I’m back after having seen it on Broadway twice and already have tix for the third!
I’ve never seen anything like this production. There are several shows I’ve seen more than once, but every moment isn’t seared into my mind like this one is. And I cannot stop thinking about it.
I’d basically be repeating everything you said, but this production is everything everyone said it is and more (especially Nicole!). And it is going to stay with me for a very, very long time.
Agree ❤ such a powerful show just saw it
Fun fact about Nicole when you talk about how she's meant for Theater. She went to Youth Performing Arts School (for highschool) in Louisville, my hometown (of which my sister is also an alumni), so not surprised she's doing well! That training was early.
Dare we compare Patti to Carrie Hope Fletcher....in regards to ALW treatment
The only thing I will say about Tom as Joe sitting down before Nicole goes into her scene discussing Salome, is the representation of power and hierarchy within the group. Although it is most likely played for laughs, I personally see it as Nicole’s Norma really establishing an immediate dominance upon Joe and her eventual emotional control over his material and eventual life upon the end. It shows the audience the first hints into her original dominance on the picture career and how unhinged it has made her recently.
You're spot on, and I've got go say, having returned to see the show again recently, I didn't mind it!
I can somehow see Nicole Scherzinger in the role of Norma Desmond, but here in Australia, I've just learnt a few days ago that Sarah Brightman will be reviving the role of Norma Desmond! I don't quite know how to feel about that - I hope she surprises me, that's all I can say for now.
I don't know why you'd be surprised if Sarah Brightman's performance is successful. She makes a lot more sense in the role than Nicole Scherzinger.
@@iseley
To be fair, I think Sarah Brightman is a surprising choice because of her voice type. Norma is a mezzo belter, whereas Brightman is a soprano. Brightman could belt to some extent back in the eighties, but I wonder if she is able to sing this role in the traditional style - or will she sing it in a more operatic style?
@@iseleyI mean, ALW is literally having to reorchestrate the show to suit her range, so I think it’s a reasonable position. As a fellow Aussie, I’d personally be much more interested in seeing this adaptation. We already had our big glitzy staging, with Debra Byrne and Hugh Jackman before he was famous.
@@scswp6945ALW is reorchestrating for this production to suit her voice
Sarah Brightman is the one person I'd love to see play Norma. I saw her play the original Christine and she was mesmerising, and enjoyed her career since...I think you are in for a treat.
I loved the backstage and street part. Is it confirmed it’s actually live or filmed once and cleverly synced?
Absolutely recorded live every night. He's had to use an umbrella and had people trying to photobomb from a pub.
Talking about With One Look, the song actually starts in A Major and in both Patti Lupone’s and Glenn Close’s versions, the key changes to D Major at the instrumental part… Lupone stays in that key until the end while Close modulated down to B Major. Nicole’s version is a different story because even though she started in the same A Major key, they transposed her song to C Major at the instrumental part and she remained in that key until the end. So while it is true that she didn’t modulate down with the last “with one look…” like what Close did, her actual transposition is different and lower than Lupone’s. Didn’t make her version any less than Lupone’s, though. Nicole’s version was still stunning I my honest opinion that it almost brought me to tears.
When I saw the show in September, Nicole did blew me away that she stayed in key in the whole ending part, but only after I listened to all 3 versions again that I learned that they all ended differently, actually… :)
The modulation in With One Look is still there…it’s just in a different place. This version modulates to a different (and lower) key than even the Patti version after the lyrics “still out there in the dark.”
Yep - lower than Patti, higher than Glenn.
Seeing it next week and I'm very excited! Usually I don't really enjoy these kind of stripped down, "modern" productions but I'll try to be open minded!
It was during the choruses I was reminded "oh yeah it's Andrew Lloyd Webber", gave me Cats and Joseph the Amazing Technicolor vibes - just saw it with Scherzinger on Broadway, WOW! Amazing!
Maybe she's changed her delivery since you saw it because it's the "home" note that she holds, not "last".
Well, fingers crossed this jumps the pond.
Do you think this adaptation would work for an audience member who hasn’t seen /listened to Sunset before? A lot of the rave reviews seem to have centred on how different this is - and I’m definitely excited to see it for that reason! - but do you think it’ll still work for an audience member who, without set and props, can’t ‘fill in the blanks’ as far as the story goes?
I took my Mum to opening night who had not seen any version of SB. I had been to the 1993 West End production so new the story. My mother said she was lost because of the lack of visual cues and had to watch the film to understand the story (ITVX) Others may have got it mind....
I saw it yesterday having never seen or listened to Sunset Boulevard previously and I thought it was absolutely incredible. I didn’t struggle to follow the plot, and if you’ve seen this review you already know a lot more than I did 😊 Highly recommend!
Thank you both! I’ve seen it twice (the Kathryn Evans revival directed by Craig Revel Horwood and the Glenn Close concert at the Coliseum) - but am taking a friend with no knowledge of the show. So this is useful feedback!
I get your point about the chorus not necessarily being necessary & you just wanted to get on with the his/her scenes but, you have to remember, it was originally written that way to enable scene changes (eg. from house to Paramount) & for the actor playing Norma to change into a different costume.
Nicole's training was in theatre so all of this tracks!!! I am looking forward to her getting "her flowers" on this side of the pond following the transfer to Broadway :)
I really enjoyed this review! Being a silly American, I'll probably never get to see this production. From what you describe, it really sounds like this particular production invites comparision. I'm totally digging the black and white asthetic-- Wilder could have easily shot the film in color but intentionally did it in black and white. I know that's probably out of your wheelhouse, but the conversation between the original film and this production could be ripe for interesting interpretation.
Thank you for discussing the monkey. My critical theory addeled brain is obsessed with the monkey.
Truly enjoy your work!
It’s very likely to be screened in cinemas at some point.
There are rumors that this revival is going to transfer to Broadway.
I hope it travels to the US!
Would you recommend this for a group of highschoolers? I teach theatre and we were considering it for our trip to NYC.
Is Nicole on every performance except Monday like the day and night ones?
I HAVE BEEN WAITING FIR THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!🎉🎉
Just saw this finally, truly insane production - the Sunset Boulevard scene had me like 😱😱😱 hadn’t wanted to see it until started seeing the raves but really glad I went, truly an amazing theatre experience! Though I’m not a big fan of the Savoy balcony, it’s a bit scary trying to get past people with that rake
Currently, you are the only theater critic I trust
Where would you recommend sitting in the auditorium for the best experience of this show? :)
Stalls
She's now in her mid-40s -- she should have done more of this stuff over the last 25yrs. Phenomenol.
Never late than never
Listening to this review, I know I would love it even if overall I hated it simply because it would be a fun NEW way to see Sunset
I'm waiting to see if/when someone captures the "behind-the-scenes" moment happening each night at the start of the second act. Like a theater fan who has seen it and knows the timing, and one night just waits for the action to begin from the stage door and films it (naturally from a distance, and without interrupting anything). If I lived there, I sure would love to see Tom Francis do that walk on multiple occasions. 😅
There are a few clips on x of it happening live outside the theatre
Excellent review! I saw it last week with Rachel Tucker, exceptional!
I want to see Nicole top but I realised she is filming masked singer USA. Wonder when she is back 😪
Nicole was just gone for a few days but she is back till Jan 6 except Mondays that is Rachel Tucker’s day
Amazing thank you
I think the next time i go to London i will proabbly see Hadstwon.
Ahhh I've been waiting for your review since I went to see it in September! Can't wait to hear your thoughts!
Edit: Totally agree with your thoughts. I have literally thought about this show every day since I saw it! I can't wait to try and go and see Rachel Tucker as Norma to see how the show changes. Also, I literally stood outside the theatre on Saturday to see if the Act 2 opener really was live, as like you said, it has to be seen to be believed, and I can confirm he really is walking round outside and singing. My mind was blown by this whole production.
one thing that did disappoint me, was that they didn't do the usual ending of 'Too Much In Love To Care' as they chose a lower ending, and I felt like the song petered out rather than having the big ending it usually does. Not sure what the decision would've been behind this but it was still beautiful.
Thats really cool! I loved that scent
The use of onstage live camera feeds reminds me very much of Headlong's _1984._ It was very effective there, I wouldn't be surprised if it was very effective here.
Interestingly, in the 1922 _Salome_ the title role was played by Alla Nazimova, who was 44 at the time. I wonder if that was partly inspiration for Norma Desmond being certain that she could play 16.
And to be fair, Nazimova did pull it off.
Thoughts on Sarah Brightman playing Norma for Australian run in 2024 pls?
Wow! Yes please.
Yeeeeees, finally! ❤
Hope it was worth the wait!
I don't know that much of the show(apart from see this review) but I'm going to see the show in Sydney with Sarah Brightman. It's probably going to be expensive bc it's ALW & then also a big cast member from overseas. Can't wait though.
Sunset Boulevard is one of my favorite movies of all time, Im genuinely glad that the musical seems to be great, so im excited (though im not really into Andrew Lloyd Webber's music very much)