FreshFRINGE 25 REVIEWS: "Spy Movie:The Play!"

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Written by Nilufer Aumeerally for FreshAir Radio

“Spy Movie: The Play!” is a show that is sure to capture hearts and stay in minds in the post-Fringe haze. I attest this fact to the throngs of people exiting Pleasance Above, when I attended on Saturday the 16th of August, faces still plastered with smiles and already quoting their favourite lines back and forth, while the cast and crew determinedly deconstructed their set (See also: a rail, a curtain and a dream.) 

As a long-term fan of “The Play that Goes Wrong,” I was keen to see this show, produced by and starring various actors in the aforementioned production. I’m happy to confirm this run has captured the magic of it’s well-known cousin, while maintaining it’s own marked originality. This show treats the fourth wall, its set, its actors and audience with hilarity and wit, all through a comically exaggerated suavity inspired by the spy movie genre. 

Conceptually, there is so much to love for all wanting to attend. Between the physical comedy, the fast paced and hysterical delivery and the clever direction that co-ordinated this fantastic piece, all elements of this show are brought together in a satirical mockery of the whole genre. The nods to spy imagery in pop culture- ridiculous disguises, impractical quips and convenient evil-stopping devices- kept our audience fondly laughing about classical over-the-top tropes that the show was able to turn into comical fodder. 

I feel I must personally commend the writing of this show. Not a line was wasted, to the point where you were laughing before you’d had a chance to process what was said- you just knew it would be funny! The writers, Matthew Howell and Jack Michael Stacey, crafted a script that delivers quick-witted hilarity with each line, stitching together all other fine-tuned elements of the production to create a perfectly imperfect show. 

A special mention must go to the four actors we see on stage- Emily Waters, Jo Hartland, Matthew Howell and Jamie Watterson. In delivering choreography, blocking and scripting so precise it could perform surgery, these four create a performance that is in sync, hilarious and leaves you wanting more. All in all, a Major Success. 

"Spy Movie: The Play!" runs 30th July- 25th August

Get your tickets here: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/spy-movie-the-play