I saw the Spider-Man musical, Turn Off The Dark, last night, and I have to say that I thought it was fantastic. When all of Hollywood is scrambling to make everything 3-D even when it doesn’t need to be, this play is as three-dimensional and real as it can get. There’s an old saying that says “You don’t know how far you can go until you’ve gone too far,” and that’s what I think happened with this play. They pushed the boundaries of theater like no musical had even done before, and in the process, they broke a couple of bones. I for one have to say I think it was well worth it.
My favorite part of the play was a particular group of “geeks” who pseudo-narrate the entire play. Their witty banter and perfect comedic timing moved the evening along flawlessly. Mat Devine, who plays one of the geeks, is from the band Kill Hannah, and he lights up the Broadway stage even more than the one he’s used to (sweet Black Flag pin, Mat).
If you’re a comic book fan, a Spider-Man fan, or if you are smart enough to appreciate ambition and creativity in action, check out Turn Off The Dark.
*Note: No one was hurt during my Monday night showing, and for the record, no Spider-Men have died during the play.
