This adaptation by David Hare premiered at the Almeida Theatre; London in 1997 starring Ralph FiennesThis is a drama of a Russian landowners half-farcical; half serious personal crisis as he plummets fast into domestic and philosophical chaos. The central scene concerns a debate between the landowner and the young doctor about honesty. The latter thinks that honesty is to do with blurting out offensive truths; whilst the former insists that no-one can acquire honesty unless they have the self knowledge to examine their own motives. By turns despairing and passionate; this play offers an insight into a robust young writer; exploring themes that were to interest him in his later plays.
#3731561 in eBooks 2013-12-21 2014-01-07File Name: B00HP4KQXU
Review
46 of 47 people found the following review helpful. More of a study of Maggies acting; less of a personal portraitBy Phil 413If readers want more of a performance or theatrical review; this biography of Maggie Smiths is very thorough in covering Maggies work. In fact; the book is mostly about Maggies acting career: Details and more details about the play or movie or other professional work; including other actors and their comments; and delving into particular scenes and how they are acted. I found it to be quite dull - the author expresses that Maggie has a personality; but it isnt brought to life here; though there were glimpses (Maggies early relationship with her mother and a general picture of her childhood is presented in a more personal; sympathetic way; and I loved learning what books Maggie read and enjoyed as a child; and the fact that she sat in the bathtub with her blue jeans on).The book felt more like a technical study of Maggies professional world and works; and less like a personal portrait of Maggie as a whole person - it lacked warmth and personality.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. A disappointing adventureBy Helen E. HeimerlI was hoping for an interesting BIOGRAPHY of Maggie Smith. Instead; I got a survey of British theater and film with a bit of Broadway and Hollywood thrown in. Occasionally to author spent a few pages on the life of this great actress. I would not recommend this book to anyone wanting a biography. It was disappointing for me. Having read many biographies; I could not truly classify this as such. I hope to find a real biography of Maggie Smith someday.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. Two StarsBy Joan GlastonburyThis book doesnt really make her come alive
