The Music Critic
A night full of classical music and John Malkovich. What could be better?
Now before I get started I must disclaim I could listen to John Malkovich read the phonebook and be easily entertained so this review might be a little biased, but I'm going to do my best to keep it objective.
"The Music Critic" was created and conceived by Aleksey Igudesman who also stars in the production as one of the spotlight musicians Malkovich tries to destroy. It's a delightfully absurd concept of having Malkovich read real reviews from critics of Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and even himself. "The grand finale is, 'The Malkovich Torment', a horrific review about Malkovich himself, which Igudesman has set to music in a uniquely sardonically humorous way." (Source: https://www.themusiccritic.com). After his own review, Malkovich seems to turn into a much softer and kinder music nerd who involves himself in the musician's performance offering suggestions any superfan would feel inclined to do although he has "no business being up there".
The show felt, at some points, repetitive but the point of the production did not go over my head. Even the likes of Bach and Chopin, musical geniuses by today's standards, got horrible reviews in their day. My favorite part was a showdown between Igudesman and Malkovich. Musician and critic. I was reminded of that Seinfeld episode where Jerry goes to a heckler's office and roasts her at her 9-5. Who among us haven't wanted to fight back against our critic? In whatever form that takes.
Do I think this show is for everybody? No. But I do think all musicians and music lovers should give it a shot. The production is still touring around the U.S. and beyond so check it out if it's in your town (see link below). Overall, a night of excellent music and I'm so grateful to have seen my main man John Malkovich in action.
Get tickets here: https://www.themusiccritic.com