Title: Bland, bland, bland
Product review: I use clips from this production with my drama class to compare and contrast with the original version. In particular we look at the famous dining room scene which, in this version, is a tepid rendition without passion or energy. Why the plaintive cello music? Instead of highlighting the central battle of wills between Anne and Helen, it seems to be urging us to feel pity for Helen, the very thing Sullivan was combating within the Keller family.This version also adds dialogue to emphasize the subplot between Captain Keller and James - the original James was callow and abrasive, but I find this one unbearable. Overall a beautiful adaptation to look at but lacking a firm directorial vision.
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