Review of A Life in the Theatre

If you have ever been involved in community or local theater groups, you may enjoy this film. After spending several years with the same actors, play after play, I found this film to hit the bullseye. Mamet's writing is brilliant as the relationship between the veteran actor and the budding actor develops - not only off-stage, but is intensified by the repertory plays in which the two actors are cast. Mamet never fails to entertain, nor does he ever fail to unmask the human dilemma. This movie is considered a 'comedy,' however, if you have ever acted or been involved with production 'behind the scenes,' you may just say to yourself, "this is not funny - I 'know' these people!" This film delivers its goods to those who understand them. And as always, Jack Lemmon and Matthew Broderick are a pleasure to watch perform their craft.