Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal Illuminate Broadway in “Othello”
The allure of Denzel Washington takes center stage in Kenny Leon’s reimagining of Shakespeare’s tragic masterpiece, Othello, now dazzling audiences on Broadway. Audiences are flocking to the Ethel Barrymore Theatre, where tickets are soaring to over $900—and much of that can be attributed to Washington’s undeniable star power.
A Modern Take on a Classic Tragedy
Set against a backdrop of stately classical grandeur, the production’s new vision throws us into a world labeled "The Near Future." While this modern aesthetic, designed by Derek McLane, adds an artistic flair, it often feels more stylish than substantive. Leon’s approach to this timeless text appears hesitant, lacking a cohesive narrative thread that gives weight to the drama unfolding.
The Power of Iago: Jake Gyllenhaal’s Seething Performance
Stealing scenes with a seething intensity, Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a compelling portrayal of Iago, one of Shakespeare’s most dastardly villains. Gyllenhaal’s performance brings a delightful complexity to Iago’s character—infusing it with charm and cunning as he schemes against the noble Othello. His petulance, stemming from being overlooked for a promotion, adds depth to this malevolent figure, making the line between villainy and vulnerability intriguingly blurred.
A Mixed Bag of Performances
While Gyllenhaal impresses, it’s notable that the emotional gravity of Othello’s journey often evaporates under the production’s weight. When the audience finds themselves captivated by the performances of secondary characters like Andrew Burnap’s Cassio and Kimber Elayne Sprawl’s Emilia, it indicates some misalignment in the focus of the show. Their dynamic portrayals inject life into the tale, highlighting just how vital these supporting roles can be.
Washington, a two-time Oscar winner, has proven his prowess on stage as well. His previous performances in August Wilson’s Fences and A Raisin in the Sun showcased his depth. Yet, in Othello, he often feels disconnected, particularly during the draggy first act, making him appear to be conserving energy for more intense moments later on.
The Tragedy of Othello: Emotional Disconnect
As the narrative progresses, we witness Othello’s descent into jealousy and madness—ideally, this would strike a heavy emotional chord with the audience. However, the connections between Washington’s Othello and his co-stars sometimes feel fleeting. His dynamic with Desdemona, played by Molly Osborne, lacks the chemistry that should render their tragic love deeply affecting.
An especially troubling contrast occurs during Othello’s ultimately shocking confrontation with Desdemona. Instead of the intended somber reverence, some audience members respond with inappropriate laughter, revealing a disconnect that undermines the tragedy.
The Direction: Hints of Genius, But Also Missteps
Director Kenny Leon brings a certain value to the production but curiously neglects the overall emotional arc that binds these characters. The opening scenes are marked by gimmicks—like the floating handkerchief, a symbol of betrayal—while the pacing often rushes through poignant moments, robbing the dialogue of its inherent beauty.
Moreover, Leon provocatively explores themes of racism, particularly through Iago’s caustic comments, yet there lies an inconsistency in the portrayal of Iago’s marriage to a Black woman. This dichotomy begs a deeper exploration of social commentary that is, unfortunately, left unexplored.
Final Thoughts: A Distant Memory of Past Performances
While the production boasts powerhouses like Washington and Gyllenhaal, it struggles to achieve the cohesion and emotional depth necessary for a classic like Othello. Comparisons arise with previous adaptations, such as the iconic 1982 revival featuring James Earl Jones or Sam Gold’s 2016 production, which successfully transported the essence of Othello into a contemporary setting.
In short, while Leon’s Othello may not reach the heights audiences hope for, it does spotlight Washington and Gyllenhaal’s formidable talents, creating an experience well worth seeing—even if it’s not quite the unforgettable tragedy many had anticipated.
Performance Details:
Venue: Ethel Barrymore Theatre, New York
Cast: Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, Molly Osborne, Andrew Burnap, Kimber Elayne Sprawl, Anthony Michael Lopez, Daniel Pearce, Neal Bledsoe, Rob Heaps, Gene Gillette, Ezra Knight, Julee Cerda, William Connell, Ty Fanning, Ben Graney, Christina Sajous, Sarah Thorn, Greg Wood
Director: Kenny Leon
Playwright: William Shakespeare
Set Designer: Derek McLane
Costume Designer: Dede Ayite
Lighting Designer: Natasha Katz
Sound Designer: Justin Ellington
Fight Director: Thomas Schall
Presented by: Brian Anthony Moreland
Explore more about Denzel Washington’s legacy and Jake Gyllenhaal’s career as you delve into the rich tapestry of theater and film history that continue to shape Broadway today.
