Friday, August 31, 2012

Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark - Review Summary

1LR has dissected the Broadway musical Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark by examining several significant components of the show. Let's review -

Music got a 17 out of 20 - a Solid Hit!
Story got a 15 out of 20 - a Hit!
Costumes got a 14 out of 20 - a Hit!
Sets got a 18 out of 20 - A Solid Hit!
Action got a 20 out of 20 - A Critical Hit!
And, although it wasn't rated, the entire experience of attending a Broadway musical at the Foxwood Theatre was delightful, from the magnificent architecture to the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff.

But how did these disparate pieces fit together? Well, as you might imagine, with every component of the show being rated positively, the overall experience of the show was very enjoyable. 

One thing that I didn't mention previously was how funny the show is. Although the general tone of the show is pretty heavy and somber there are a few very funny moments to break the tension. The Green Goblin seems to deliver most of these moments. At one point, he is trying to call in a threat to the Daily Bugle only to be thwarted by an automated receptionist. In another funny scene, he sings the song "I'll Take Manhattan," to  illustrate his intent to literally take it over. 

J. Jonah Jameson is also used for some comedic relief. His character is largely inspired by J.K. Simmons's performance in the Spider-Man movies and he constantly terrorizes his employees with his over the top antics.

Sure, Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark isn't without its flaws. At times the story meanders a little, the Sinister Six are underutilized, the script is a little too much like the movies, and some slight tweaks to the origin story make it less emotionally significant.

But don't buy the hype that this show is a joke. It may have had its share of struggles getting off the ground but the final product is a serious and truly unique interpretation of a character that's been reinvented a hundred times before. 
Jennifer Damiano The cast during curtain call for "Spider-Man Turn Off the Dark" Return to Broadway first preview performance at the Foxwoods Theatre on May 12, 2011 in New York City.
The cast and characters of Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark.
Bottom line: Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark is a must-see for any Spidey fan. Casual fans, fans of theater, and children are also all likely to enjoy this awe-inspiring show.

1LR REVIEW - 18 out of 20! It's a Solid Hit!

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