Story Created:
Mar 16, 2009 at 4:05 PM PST
Story Updated:
Apr 2, 2009 at 11:22 AM PST
While Donald Margulies’ “Time Stands Still,” directed by Dan Sullivan, ponders horrific Iraq war atrocities, the deeper theme is about relationships and the effect these incidents have on a photojournalist (Anna Gunn) and her war correspondent boyfriend (David Harbour).
Often, these two themes are at war with each other, in a play that studies the inner conflicts faced by a couple whose contentious relationship becomes tedious after a while. By the second act, they — and their constant bickering — are certifiably squirm-worthy.
Interestingly, there is no curtain. Act one opens with lights up inside a loft in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, thrusting us immediately into a wonderfully realistic setting that offers an open and inviting view into the drama that unfolds within. John Lee Beatty’s set, rich with textures, allows the actors to move easily through the motions of everyday life. The lighting by Peter Kaczorowski shifts our focus as the actors move into the different areas of the loft.
The play centers on Sarah (stunningly and energetically portrayed by Gunn), who returns home to Brooklyn after being badly injured in a roadside bombing. Her boyfriend of eight years, James, sympathetically portrayed by Harbour, tries to redeem himself by taking care of Sarah during her recuperation — wracked with guilt over the fact that he wasn’t there when she was nearly killed.
As infidelities, and other betrayals collide with conflicting life goals, the battles within each character create rather heavy drama. Comic relief, refreshingly, arrives by way of Mandy — a sweet, guileless event planner well-acted by Alicia Silverstone. Referred to by Sarah as the “mid-life crisis baby girl” to her and James’ best friend and editor, Richard (Robin Thomas), Mandy sets the tone immediately as she enters with her bright silver balloons with “Welcome Home” and “Get Well” messages. She plans events in the Egyptian Room at the Met and handles the décor and caterers, while Sarah handles events as “wars, famines and genocides.” Richard and Mandy’s bond strikingly contrasts with the play’s central relationship.
Can Sarah be happy with James? Does the war Sarah so desperately wants to photograph mirror her war within? There are many relevant issues raised in this well acted, heavy-hitting but sometimes uneven play. Though tiresome at times, “Time Stands Still” certainly does give offer audiences a new opportunity to reflect on the consequences of life choices, and how they affect those closest to us.
Audrey Linden is a freelance writer. “Time Stands Still” runs through March 15 at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles. For ticket prices and show times call (310) 208-5454.
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