Why I didn’t like the Sunset Blvd Revival on Broadway

[@MatthewHardyMusical]

Saw you there. We saw the same performance. Had the same experience as you at the beginning, but it won me over eventually. I think the reason I liked it and you didn't is that, unlike you, I don't really love the show to begin with, so my expectations were low.

[@CK-dp6je]

I saw Glen Close it was amazing, they had a full symphony on stage, the sound was lush!

[@KT-sq2ml]

Saw her also and met her after the show. I thought she was phenomenal.

[@stevesolis270]

Sunset Boulevard is one of my all-time favorite musicals. I saw the both original Broadway production and the Broadway revival starring Glen Close and loved them both. I thought the addition of young Norma, the reimagined set and the placement of the orchestra on stage for that revival were brilliant choices. I decided to see this new version in London last fall and have to say I absolutely hated everything about it, including the lack of any sets, the inappropriate contemporary black and white street cloths, the over reliance on video and stage fog, the elimination of songs, the miscasting of Norma, placing the majority of the second act opening number on screen rather than live on stage, and the gratuitous use of stage blood during the final bows.

[@Aaron_R]

I was reported for bullying for saying the exact same thing on another page on youtube. The creators are trying to hype up the show and censor all comments. Don't post this on their page. I don't understand how norma desmond can be physically attractive - it ruins the plot of the story. If Norma was physically attractive - men would be lining up to date her (and be in a relationship). She'd still have that aura that an attractive woman has full of orbiting beta men. She would still be a mini-celebrity because she's attractive. She's supposed to be bossy, annoying, and crazy (like many wealthy women are). She's supposed to personify what happens sometimes when women have loads of money. She wouldn't be looking to date an unemployed writer (she could do better), the miscast ruins the storyline. Especially today with online dating/social media/smart phones. I think he hit the nail on the head by saying this is popular because she used to be in a popular band (catdolls).

[@Aaron_R]

I loved the movie, and the 1994 version Andrew Loydd Webber musical version I saw in Cleveland. The movie isn't a musical though but it's way more dramatic and really well done. I haven't seen this version but I heard all the songs on youtube - it didn't even come close to the other version I've heard. It wasn't bad though, it was good, but it was far from the best I've heard.

[@forestfields]

So glad I found your review. I saw it last night and agree 100% with your analysis. If I hadn't seen the original (or at least the movie) I would have had no idea what was going on in the beginning -- or probably through much of it. The orchestra and the singers were fantastic, but I agree that the audience was mainly there to see the stars, not the show.

[@100cruises8]

I have seen all productions ( Glenn Close original and revival, also the newest version), I have been in the business for over 20 years and applaud a new approach to a story. The first SB was over the top lavish, the revival was minimal set and had the orchestra on the stage. This production is mixing mediums film and theatre and I think for the most part it works, the act two opener did have me go “huh” I did not get the intoxicating feel of that song and the journey that he is on. Now Nicole is amazing, no lavish costumes, wigs or set pieces to distract from her performance, which a lot of performers will rely on, it is just her with no where to hide, the character does make dramatic moves a lot, Norma was a huge star and diva does comes to mind. Also, when she is on screen it is hard to give minimal energy to the close up and at the same time try to keep the physical body in motion to have the audience engaged, I think the whole cast did a great job. The show is an evolution, an evolution of the Director, choreographer, actors and their collective dream. They could have very easily mounted it like it was in the past and chosen the “safe” way. You are right it is not for everyone but walking in with a open mind like you did was the way to go. Glad I found your channel.

[@RyanC8703]

Agree with you. This is not for someone who has no idea what's Sunset Blvd is all about. A couple next to me left at intermission (perhaps for that reason. I am not sure). One confusion I got when Betty Schaefer finished her script by typing "THE END" on a MacBook?

[@100cruises8]

@ I did not catch that one, sorry I missed it ….. that is what makes theatre an art form, everyone sees something different. Nicole was, it is hard to put into words, her performance was something I have not seen in a long time, speechless I was speechless.

[@RyanC8703]

@@100cruises8 she acted/sang and pounded her chest. It was so dramatic.

[@100cruises8]

@@RyanC8703 I was so into it, every moment was electric, I think you can guess by now I loved her performance, but the two ensemble members who were running the video feed were incredible to watch, if they are late or cannot get the shot the whole scene is off plus know their blocking and lyrics ... unbelievable

[@romyv1077]

I agree that if you are a broadway purist, this is not for you. This is camp and meta. I saw SB last week and I love this new production. I understand the use of camera to tell the tell the story. This is the story of once silent movie star/diva during the black and white era. And yes that line to the mens bathroom is crazy 😀 Tony is calling ...

[@Jk-us7wt]

Hey - just discovered your channel with this review and loved your honesty, passion and charming wit - im a theatre director and longtime Broadway / West End theatregoer and find Jamie Lloyd's work to be insufferable - the epitome of soulless, gimmicky Eurotrash pretension. It is so in love with itself it barely has any time to actually tell a story or affect an audience on any level other than manufactured theatricality. It used to be vaguely interesting in a trash/chic way but in the last few years it has turned into dull self-parody. Thanks for yelling Emperor's New Clothes - not looking forward to seeing the production as ive seen it all before countless other times. The live video/non-set/black "costumes"/pseudo intensity is so yesterday its become a camp antique. Look forward to seeing more of your detailed and intelligent reporting.

[@s.hopkins4490]

I saw the original with Patti Lupone in the West End. I’ve never forgotten her voice.The whole production was sumptuous. I know this isn’t for me. Scaled down is definitely not for me. And I think the walking the streets singing SB is a bit too gimmicky for me and takes away from the show since it keeps getting discussed and problems with NYers being told where to walk 😂

[@yayshowvids6427]

I feel like this comes down to either people connect with what they’re doing, or they don’t. For me it definitely does. The way they use the black-and-white color scheme and camera work to give a film noir feel absolutely harkens back to the movie. I think people who need more connection to the original stage production instead may be disappointed not to find it. The right mindset to watch this is letting go of the expectation of that, and enjoying it for the visually stunning and smartly insightful experience it brings. The way it shows the parallels of the pitfalls of fame in that era and fame today is genius. I was one of the biggest naysayers and I couldn’t have been more wrong. This is one of those shows and performances where people years from now will brag that they saw it.

[@Woofers617]

I loved it. I’ve seen it twice and will probably see it a few more, as a New Yorker. Why did I love it? It’s hard to say. It was innovative, it was experimental, it was dark and moody and reminded me a little of a bizarre French new wave movie like “Breathless.” It was noir-ish but also darkly funny. The 3 leads were phenomenal. Because I love old black-and-white movies. Because it felt like an old movie. Because it was intense and melodramatic, and delightfully subversive. That said, it took me about 30 mins to get into it. And I totally get why someone wouldn’t be into it. For some reason, I am just under its spell. Who can say why? Just give it a chance, and maybe you’ll be under its spell too. “Feel the early morning madness/ Feel the magic in the making/ Why everything's as if we never said goodbye” Even though there’s a lot of cynicism in this dark tale of Hollywood, I think I really just love the beauty of this musical too. It really took me back to being a kid and falling in love with theater, movies, & the world of storytelling. The faded colors, the foggy reality, the mad dream we all still have that burns in us, refusing to be dimmed…Anyway, that’s just my two cents. Will prob see a few more times.

[@crazymosquito6093]

I completely agree with you, and I'm a Jamie Lloyd hater!! I go to Broadway twice per week (thank you, TDF) and this production was really a breath of fresh air in an otherwise series of boring, uninspired revivals and new shows. I loved the cameras, they created a new intimate connection with the cast, you could see every facial expression, and I loved how lights, fog and choreography created spaces. It's not everyone's cup of tea, that's sure.

[@mwmheps]

Interesting video! I personally found it really gripping as I think it's just so different from anything else I've seen. I would hate for every show to be like this but I think it's got a compelling style, I found it really worked for me in terms of the story it was telling. I actually probably enjoyed the last 20 minutes the least as I thought it got a bit too abstract and busy and I found the pacing right for the earlier parts. I really especially enjoyed the performances by the other leads as well as Nicole, I think they were all fantastic in their parts. And the Act 2 opening while a bit gimmicky blew my mind when I saw it (unspoiled). It's fun to hear different perspectives when shared in a thoughtful way like you have here!

[@JamesPenha]

0:15 I could not disagree more. Sunset Blvd is a story about movies, and so this production lets us see scenes via cameras. This is a story about illusions-mostly Norma’s but also the illusions of those of us ”in the dark.” And so the production, following Brechtian alienation theiry, reminds us-jars us-we are not watching reality; we are watching a dream, a stage musical. We come to understand Norma by our contrasting perception of the real and the illusory. Brilliant and enthralling. I loved Glenn Close’s show stoppers in her version, but the rest of that all-too-lavish production bored me. Jamie Lloyd’s take was always fascinating… and Nicole? Dynamite!

[@ricoltmetric8156]

So this style is to not get involved or care about the characters but realize this is a play and observe the actors like bugs in an ant farm. When I don't care about a character I tell myself that was a wasted time of my life.

[@yayshowvids6427]

@@ricoltmetric8156 nowhere did they say that

[@rutha1464]

I am a VERY old theater queen. I have learned that to be happy in the genre Broadway musicals, you have to be flexible. The more I compare musicals with the Broadway of my youth, the more I come away depressed and disappointed. The more I just approach each presentation individually, the greater chance I will have an enjoyable experience. I wish more people were interested in your great video! Sad.

[@jb7644]

The question is, who is this musical for? and it seems like you've narrow it down to the non broadway fan who's into divas. I've seen the original production and I always thought Sunset Blvd was well known for being one of the mega musical with lavish production (that the original couldn't even afford to maintain it). So to hear it having actors just stand and sing this with no action is sort of weird. Its probably one of those musicals now that its selling because of one artist. Once Nicole's done, would this rendition continue?

[@samuelm.5752]

They are already working in London an another revival of EVITA. Now that was my favorite Broadway musical!

[@yankee04]

I saw Sunset Blvd in November. I loved it! I have now seen twice. It’s a brilliant production. Watched the 1950 film before I went. Nicole is brilliant. She stuns! Tom Francis is excellent. Another standout was David Thaxton as Max. Grace Hodgett Young was also amazing. Here’s hoping for multiple acting Tony’s and a Best Revival Tony. Saw Gypsy and was bored so I REALLY hope that doesn’t win.

[@joshdukie998]

Agreed! I keep seeing people rave about this production like it's so ground breaking. Jamie Lloyd uses this same concept for every show he directs, he is pretty much turning himself into a one trick pony.

[@jeffcollister3837]

Just saw it tonight. I agree with all of this. Wanted to like it but I didn’t. The second act was sooooo boring. Weird just to be weird. I get it. It’s a concept. Just not my jam.

[@jerryburg2333]

I couldn’t disagree with you more. I saw this version last week and saw Glenn Close do it in 1994. They are completely different productions. I loved both of them, and Nicole is one of the best vocalists I’ve heard on Broadway, or live anywhere, and I think I’ve heard them all. Not Judy. I enjoyed the stripped down ambiance of this show, loved the black and white vibe, loved the use of video, loved the casting choices. I have to ask, rhetorically, were you there when she sang With One Look? I love Glenn and Patty and Betty…but seriously, no one’s sung it better.

[@Aaron_R]

Did you see the movie? The movie is in black and white. The movie is not a musical...

[@carrielynnmiller]

Haha I had the exact same thought about this version of Sunset Blvd and the new Oklahoma (which I am STILL traumatized over 3 years after seeing it). There are definitely some similarities. Oklahoma, I had been a part of in a high school production so I was very familiar with it and had a level of expectation there and they completely threw everything I knew about it out the window. I was familiar with the score of Sunset Blvd but never saw the movie or stage production. I didn't know that Sunset Blvd was fully live when I saw it. When I was watching I thought there were several recorded parts. Then upon further reflection afterwards, I remembered them blocking off the street and someone in front of me talking about people being in Schubert Alley (I Just didn't put it together in advance). So, in retrospect I think I am more impressed than I was while I was watching it, more in just trying to figure out how they technically made that happen then anything else. I also kind of hated all the camera close ups at first but I think it's trying to reflect on/symbolize how we record ourselves now (social media influencers, etc) and show how Norma still thinks she is a star (in her mind, she's still on screen). Maybe I'm reading too much into it :) But, I think I kind of get the thought behind it. I am not a huge fan of the Pussycat dolls, but Nicole was an outstanding performer in this show. I think the standing ovations in the middle of the show were a bit much. I have never seen that happen before. I guess the fact that I'm still thinking about the show, it has left an impression. But it's definitely not my "new favorite". Thanks, I enjoyed listening to your take as well. :)

[@The3318]

Seeing it in a couple of weeks. Can’t wait! I’ll let you know.

[@richmrstonestone]

So glad Nicole isn't being affected by these resentful children who are attacking her for her faith. Unreal how they think it's their business.

[@mgescuro]

It’s gonna be Scherzinger v Brayden v Audra come Tony Night.

[@margagomezcomedy]

That’s what I thought glad I bought a ticket for Maybe Happy Endings instead. Robots more heartfelt.

[@deniseberman8633]

The tube socks killed it for me!😝😂

[@L1623VP]

It's incredible how low people's standards have gotten and how easily impressed they are these days. This sounds like a concertized version of the show with all the acting extracted. I hate it when audiences are told it's a stripped down show, as if the producers are trying to sell it as avant-garde when in reality no set, costumes, or effects just means they have no money to actually produce the show the way it should be done. It's a money grab. They're charging you $100 per ticket to see a concert version of the show when you could just stay home and listen to the CD. The truth is, costs are so high these days that you're not likely to see a fully staged production of Sunset Boulevard or any of the classic big shows for many years. When Phantom closed it was the last 28-piece orchestra on Broadway. I'm so glad I saw Betty Buckley in the original Sunset Boulevard run.

[@craigbonney1411]

Saw the London version of this ... agree with you totally. Felt like a group of woke drama students putting on their end of year musical ... (with no budget)

[@yankee04]

I will see it in November. Is it better to be familiar with the story or go in blind?

[@MusicalTheatre1011]

Go blind. But watch John Barrowman and Hugh Jackmans sunset blvd. videos it sums most of it up.

[@onetouchtwo]

Really articulate review, love it!

[@Festerfest123]

I disagree. I saw it last night and I was entertained from beginning till end. It never felt slow at all. The ovations felt earned. The paired down nature was so UK and I was concerned it wouldn’t play well here but the audience ate it up. Reminder that it won the Olivier for best musical as did nicole and Tom Francis. It’s worth the price for the lighting alone. Highly recommended.

[@genesis631]

This is such a interesting perspective. And disappointing to learn about it. I was excited about the minimalist design.

[@willuk5765]

I just want to put a counter perspective on this video review. Two things... First of all, the interpretation of a known work is left to the production to bring out whatever salient points that may have been missed in an original version of staging. That said, second, is that this current production, I believe did not intend to be a recreation of the original production and bringing out Norma Desmond with the original movements as in the movie would only serve as a parody of that. In order to avoid falling into that trap, it seemed that the director (Jamie Lloyd) instead brought out the deeper psychotic inner being of the character. This explains the darkness and the black and whiteness of it all. It also presented credits as part of the "movie" being shown telling and coaxing the audience that for the next two hours, to experience the inner mind of Norma Desmond. The shooting scene appeared in the complete darkness of the theater which I think, was gut wrenching as she descended into madness. I saw it two weeks ago and I am telling this from my experience. I believe this is such an unfair review. I am familiar and have seen a version of the original staging which I enjoyed. But I find this current production to be satisfying as well and in many respects outdid that. I suggest to watch it before claiming to be disappointed about it. (I do understand that Broadway tickets are way overpriced... 😢)

[@olegariocamara9308]

Thank you, I was about to check it out for myself, I don't think I will see it

[@margagomezcomedy]

I feel bad for the Tuesday Norma Desmond with all the influencer fangirls

[@cindyklempner7203]

I just saw it last night and I couldn’t disagree with you more. I thought it was fantastic for every single minute.

[@MsEllen918]

I couldn't agree more. Performers were excellent but over all production was lacking.

[@wubber2000]

We shall see. The original Sunset Boulevard with Glenn Close blew me away in 1994 - never expected that from an ALW musical. Saw it multiple times with various actors over the years - nothing compared to the Glenn Close original. I'm thrilled to see the mega-buzz around this new production as I've always loved the tragedy and music of the show, and expect to love it when I see Nicole on November 16th. I hope it triggers a strong emotional connection without the spectacle and grandeur - if not, I'll react as you have, especially in comparison to the original. We shall see...

[@DDTC73]

Obviously this production wasn't for you. I think people werent talking on the way out because they were in shock maybe??

[@stuartwise5709]

Loved your review, but I got turned off just from the ads online for the show. Sure, have previous productions ingrained but this seemed too much off the traditional to get me to see it.

[@LHSnLA]

Great video. I am so glad I got to see Glenn Close's iconic, amazing performance. I loved her and the show - and this approach doesn't really appeal to me. I am sure Nicole sings wonderfully but is she really Norma? What's next? Dakota Fanning starring in On Golden Pond?!

[@waynewayne5550]

Your comment makes no sense. Scherzinger is 46, almost the same age as Gloria Swanson in the film (50), and the same exact age as Glenn Close was in the original Broadway run.

[@Michael-wt4qs]

She will win everything, as an old west end "thing' let me say your gut is correct - she is amazing- i love it - it is in effect the total reaction to non art for 20 years - real, awful, beautiful and with a star.

[@carolegladstone-ramos3962]

Just saw the show yesterday, and really appreciate and resonate with a lot of your review. I walked out feeling many contradictory feelings and reactions. I was glad I saw it- as I go to almost everything on Broadway, and yet I really didn't like it. I appreciated the creative production, and yet I am not a fan of the operatic style of a musical. Don't love it when just about everything is sung. Thought there was a lot of talent in the show, and yet a lot of the show felt a bit overdramatized and melodramatic. I too know I am in the minority.

[@louieadam251]

For me it was magnificent production. It is a new concept not a very traditional production. Revival musical is evolution and will continue to evolve through times. I love to see revival with different concept otherwise it is gonna be boring.

[@dfa3366]

I saw SB in the 90's with Betty Buckley as Norma and was completely blown away. I'll probably never see this but it just does not look interesting. I just wonder how this would look without the star Nicole. Does it work with another lead?

[@cliffordroberts5783]

I think these pared back productions are cheap productions the producers are just saving money. Like ALW needs more money.

[@EagleRockers]

Thank you for this. It will save me from spending lots of money on something I think I might not enjoy.

[@KT-sq2ml]

Exactly same here. I don’t understand the reason for this interpretation.

[@1960mikey]

The Musical Dealer is correct, it’ll make a great cast album.

[@jeraldisme]

Go see it for yourself and judge

[@EagleRockers]

@@jeraldisme Not at those prices.

[@pcduniverse]

Omg you describing Nicole’s face hahaha that’s so her!

[@ragtmt15]

It’s supposed to have camp

[@jellyrollnorton]

"I’m just not the kind of man who *lives* for the divas." Me either. But I gotta admit I was drawn to some before I had my first gay thought (Barbra, Liza, Cher).

[@Thahid]

That’s a really good take actually. I feel like I would agree but I haven’t seen it yet.

[@simonfarrow9774]

My thoughts exactly. Personally I hate that they did this to SB.

[@KT-sq2ml]

Same here. Why?? I don’t understand the choices of some of these directors/producers. I’d be losing it after dishing out $200+ for a ticket.

[@jonsa270]

Oh dear, that’s a shame. When did you see it? Broadway or London?

[@minutemanmuster]

I experienced the similar audience swoons by females for Colton Ryan in "New York New York" (and we know how that turned out. I left at intermission, I couldn't tolerate the mess). I'm glad for your review, it does not sound like something I would enjoy. It sounds like the technology calls attention to itself rather than feeling organic (like it did for "Network", brilliant incorporation of cameras onstage). Initially, I wasn't sure that Nicole Scherzinger, at 46, would project faded glamor like Gloria Swanson did (who was only 5 years older at 51 when the movie was made), But each of them are 30 years past their initial stardom with this role so I'm glad her performance is so satisfying.

[@Aaron_R]

Gloria Swanson looked 51 in the movie. Here Nicole looks like she's in her mid 30's. I think they should of made her look 51 to fit the part.

[@minutemanmuster]

@ I completely understand your point. But maybe it’s a commentary on show business today where even a gorgeous woman in her 40s gets overlooked?

[@Aaron_R]

@@minutemanmuster But would an attractive wealthy woman in her 40's date an unemployed writer? Or would she date a man with more status/money?

[@minutemanmuster]

@@Aaron_R I guess he's a step up from the chimp lol

[@ChristopherButler-um2ko]

If you haven't seen the Canadian series Slings and Arrows, you must. It's a glorious love letter to theatre. Darren Nichols exposes Mr.Lloyd's nonsensical style.

[@johnharris721]

First of all-Sunset Blvd, a musical? Love your review. And you are really cool!❤❤

[@steppbrotha]

When you did that close up I was like why is this man's face symmetrically perfect....saw the original...I do like the music but I wasn't engaged...but I think this version will probably keep my attention more just for the aesthetics 🤷🏿‍♂️

[@joemeyers3127]

So glad the algorithm brought your review to me. Sharp and to the point.

[@PrivatePrivate-so4if]

Great review. It’s the emperor's new clothes. Yes, the album is preferable. Yup, it’s for the Pussycat’s Dolls fans. Enough said! Keep up the good work and review more and more. When I saw it I was bored to death.

[@1960mikey]

Park & Bark! - first heard this term on gLee! I have been trying to remember this term since seeing the show last night! Chairs are not scenery! The Smoking Tornadoes need further explanation, dream sequences? Every pivotal song was surrounded by Smoky Tornadoes - to what interpretation? I did think at one of the Smoky Tornadoes scenes, she was actually taking a steam. The 2nd Act open street sequence was creative staging, but I questioned, “is it really ‘LIVE THEATRE’?” I’d like it to be ‘Live’ but how do you sing about Sunset Blvd whilst walking on 44th street? Tom Francis sang this not “in-character” during this song until he re-entered the theater. I’m still on the fence with the cameras and large screen - even though, it mirrored “The Hollywood Film Industry” of the time. Slow dialogue parts had me wishing for hearing assistive devices, mumbling with no diction was way too frequent. The guy behind me was cackling away… I do not remember seeing Glenn Close’s production as particularly humorous. Also, I missed, “I love flannel on a man” and “coats made of vicuña” from “The Lady’s Paying”. I know the dialogue by heart, and even then…the last few lines of the show had me wondering, did she finally say, “Mr. De Mille, I’m ready for my close-up”? Mumble mumble. Funny you mentioned the gays - I got up and walked the lobbies during intermission, I got the distinct feeling I was at the NYEagle on Friday night. …and Ms. Scherzinger was brilliant in voice, and performance - even with the constant camping it up for the gays. She deserves a Tony nomination, but we also know Audra McDonald, the prolific Tony Winner, is also performing in Gypsy this season. Can Park and Bark beat an actively moving Rose? I’ve got to ask - did you catch the CATS Easter Egg? And in film speak - continuity? The body of Joe Gillis should have appeared in his underwear coming out of the body bag” And can we be theater friends? We can listen to the cast recording together!

[@1960mikey]

During the ACTII opening sequence we entered David Thaxton’s dressing room and focused on a picture on the mirror and he shrugged. I’m not into any new musical groups past the 80s… was that the pussycat dolls - and homage to Nicole, or was it the Spice Girls, a jab to Nicole?

[@1960mikey]

The Cast Album was released today… I heard her make the announcement on GMA - “With One Look” came with applause and the follow track - a scene comes with laughter!

[@ntherooh]

I loved this in london

[@donaldfinch1411]

He did the same with his recent Romeo & Juliet. Imagine the balcony scene "recited" out to the audience. I love a High Concept...but I don't get this guy. Ah well.

[@JoshAragon]

It sounds really pretentious

[@alphonsealagon5243]

Bravo Ms.Nicole🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@KCmidwest-wm9jd]

Change, in order to put a new director's spin on a show, doesn't guarantee that it is good. It sounds like a disappointment. I saw Glenn Close in the 90s. I was enthralled. She was great. The multi-layered set was brilliant. The opening scene with Joe's body floating in the pool - raked stage with the photogs and reporters, with the audience realization we are at the bottom of the pool, looking up, was absolute genius. This new production - I'll pass.

[@1960mikey]

The scenery got a standing ovation!

[@robotmary121]

I completely agree and I feel so validated by this review. I loved 85% of Nicoles performance, but ultimately i felt that the 15% that I HATED really took away from her character arc and storytelling. I felt like her performance really spoke to my takeaway from this revival: sacrifice storytelling for to be different. As someone who ADORED the recent oklahoma revival, I felt like all of those choices really amplified the story and message the director was going for (except for the dream ballet, i still dont get that one lol). This revival felt gimmicky.

[@MissPerriwinkle]

agree, it was a one trick pony with the cam work.....glenn close still the queen of the blvd)

[@davevelasquez7403]

This guy is stereotyping gay musical fans as blind diva worshippers.

[@Mr17051963]

I didn’t like it, too. Not my cup of tea. 😏

[@TimeIdle]

You are super cute and engaging in your review. :)

[@jtturner3367]

This is everything I have been saying, thinking and feeling ❤

[@Eddddyable]

Thank you for your honest opinion. I left the London show before the interval as I was so not impressed after seeing it originally on the UK tour in early 2000’s. I felt cheated. 😔

[@bronxbear]

Does the baboon get a close-up?

[@jerryburg2333]

The chimp is never seen…

[@1960mikey]

The chimp appears in the opening of ActII street scenes - TWICE! When the entire cast is out of character for the titular song “Sunset Blvd”

[@LB-xk6fk]

You are the cutest thing ever!!

[@CK-dp6je]

Thanks for the review… I was debating about it, I think it’s definitely not for me

[@hafizwong9187]

Everyone has different opinion and taste on everything. So I respect your view on this version of Sunset Boulevard. However, what I do not respect is your generalisation about the rationale on why those gays who love and enjoy this production. I am gay. I enjoy and love this production very much NOT because as a gay man I am drawn to just Nicole and ‘serving face’??!!! Please just speak for yourself and not for every gay man. I don’t even like Pussycat Dolls. I know Nicole is a brilliant singer and I must say that I was truly surprised that she is also a brilliant actor. No actor can hide when their facial expression is plastered on the entire backdrop of the stage. I gave her a standing ovation because she’s a brilliant actor and singer (2 important elements for a good musical actor). I do not just enjoyed it just because it is Nicole. So, while I respect your opinion on why you don’t enjoy it, it is not fair or just that you speak on the rest of the gay community’s behalf.

[@dplomin1954]

Love your critique. I saw it with Glenn Close years ago and loved it. Not sure if I’d like this one.

[@thedanielklintworth]

See... this is EXACTLY what I was worried about. Thank you for being so thorough and fair in your review. (also, though I've not seen it, from what I've heard she holds the big note of "Never Said Goodbye" for far too long, which...feels masturbatory to me...and not in the good way)

[@schuylkillmike8048]

If I wanted to see live action on a big screen, I'd go to a movie.

[@jonsa270]

Silly comment when you've not even seen it

[@schuylkillmike8048]

@@jonsa270 Next time I feel like spending $250 to watch TV in a theater, I'll go,

[@jonsa270]

@@schuylkillmike8048 “Spoken” like a true pleb.

[@michaelmorin6235]

I agree. The tv ads put me to sleep.

[@JoshAragon]

Good review and yes this is a show which should be about spectacle- also this is a role for an older woman the character is a aging movie queen- if she looks young and stunning from the get go her descent into tragedy makes no sense

[@DDTC73]

And yet in this production, it makes total sense

[@jerryburg2333]

It doesn’t have to be about spectacle.

[@DDTC73]

@@JoshAragon Nicole is about the same age as Patti, Betty and Glenn close were when they played the role. All in their mid 40's. I wish every sunset fan would see this. The Orchestra and the sound is sublime and the score is front and centre of the show. It doesn't need the house or the staircase, the turbans and kaftan, they're all distractions.

[@jonsa270]

@JoshAragon Norma Desmond was supposed to be in her late 40s-50. Nicole is 46. She just looks a lot younger than the previous ladies who’ve played the part. Close looked 70 (and looks much older in real life)…Swanson in the original part was only 50. If you’ve not seen the new production, then it WONT make sense…you need to see it, and make your own mind up. Don’t get misled by the VERY FEW negative reviews!