Overview

The new Broadway musical “Death Becomes Her” is a dazzling transformation of the sometimes mediocre 1992 film, featuring notable talents like Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn, into a riotous stage production that will leave audiences roaring with laughter.

Background

Originally directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film focused on two vain women chasing after eternal youth and beauty, albeit with a whimsical supernatural twist. Despite its mixed reviews and moderate box office performance, the film's quirky blend of campy humor and imaginative special effects has cultivated a dedicated fanbase over the years.

Theatrical Revival

Now, this classic tale has been revitalized by Universal Theatrical Group under the watchful eye of director Christopher Gattelli. This Broadway interpretation injects an exuberant dose of musicality into the plot, allowing the superficial characters to flourish in a larger-than-life comedic fashion that the original film merely hinted at.

Following a successful run in Chicago, the production kicks off with a glamorous introduction by Michelle Williams, formerly of Destiny’s Child, who embodies the mesmerizing sorceress Viola van Horn (played by Isabella Rossellini in the film). She’s backed by an ensemble of eye-catching dancers, setting the stage for the enchanting spectacle to follow.

Performances

Megan Hilty shines as the self-absorbed star Madeline Ashton (originally portrayed by Meryl Streep), belting out the hilarious number “For the Gaze,” which cleverly plays with the pun on the word “gaze.” Hilty captures the habitual absurdity of her character’s obsession with fame and beauty, drawing the audience into her farcical world.

Humor and Aesthetic

One of the hallmarks of this production is its emphasis on humor—both dark and campy—setting it apart from the film, which leaned heavily on special effects rather than a clever script. The musical's aesthetic is bigger and bolder, highlighted by Derek McLane’s stunning set designs, Paul Tazewell's eye-catching costumes, and Doug Besterman’s lush orchestral arrangements. The clever lyrics and catchy melodies by Julia Mattison and Noel Carey present a strong Broadway debut worthy of applause.

Narrative Depth

The hysterically engaging book by newcomer Marco Pennette adds depth to the narrative. Unlike the film that had loose threads, the musical tightens the storyline, delineates character motivations clearly, and accelerates the pace of laughs to a delightful non-stop pace.

Plot Summary

Plot-wise, it stays true to the film’s main arc: Madeline’s former friend Helen Sharp (played by Jennifer Simard) confronts her narcissism as Helen transforms from a dowdy figure into a successful author intent on reclaiming her life and love, Ernest Menville (Christopher Sieber). Madeline’s antics and Helen’s retaliation lead to a series of comedic confrontations after both women consume an elixir promising eternal youth, setting off a chain of slapstick and wild hijinks.

Entertainment Value

The production prides itself on providing entertainment without a pretense of deeper moral lessons, leaving the audience to enjoy the spectacle of vanity and excess. Veteran choreographer Gattelli’s directorial debut on Broadway impresses with a varied range of choreography that oscillates between absurd showbiz flair and sultry movements.

Dynamic Chemistry

Hilty and Simard have a striking on-stage chemistry as their characters’ rivalry intensifies. Their duet in the uplifting 11 o’clock number “Alive Together” raises the energy to exhilarating new heights, while Sieber delivers commendable comic timing as the beleaguered Ernest.

Supporting Cast

Adding to the comedic flair, Josh Lamon brings life to Madeline’s beleaguered personal assistant with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Even supporting players like Taurean Everett round out the cast with charming performances, proving that the ensemble is more than just a backdrop.

Conclusion

With a long shelf life anticipated for this production, “Death Becomes Her” is poised to become a staple in both Broadway and touring theater circuits. After all, the unabated hunger for youth, beauty, and immortality resonates well with audiences, ensuring that this comically dark musical will be a hit for years to come! Don’t miss your chance to witness what could be the next big must-see show!