So a few weeks ago we decided to go see Closer, the stage version...the black version. For the record, the play came before the movie, Patrick Marber wrote both play and movie. The movie starred Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Natalie Portman and Clive Owens.
The South African version of the play is directed by Sello Maake ka-Ncube. Apparently he directed the same play ten years ago with an all white cast. This time, Fezile Mpela plays Larry, Sibusiso Radebe is Dan, Linda Sokhulu is Anna, and Lindiwe Matshikiza is Alice.
By far Fezile gets top marks for an excellent performance. Probably better than the movie-Larry, that's for sure. He was hilarious, captivating, alluring...a dreadful character - especially at the end. Totally bought the story.
Thought Matshikiza (who I love) was in a little over her head with Alice. Didn't think she pulled it off at all. Wasn't cute enough (not talking appearance...)...she didn't play innocent well at all. She tried though. Her stripper movies weren't all that convincing either sadly. Whereas the opposite was true for Fezile, you believed that he was a bastard of sourts.
Linda and Sibusiso did worse though. Sibusiso more so than Linda. There was none of that Jude Law charm. Nothing.
Anywho, it was still well worth it. Fezile saved the day - me thinks. You have until Sunday to see it if you are keen. I thought it was fun.
