‘Dog Day Afternoon’ on Broadway, With Jon Bernthal and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Is Underbaked
The New York Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The Broadway adaptation of "Dog Day Afternoon" opened Monday at the August Wilson Theater, facing the significant challenge of living up to the iconic 1975 film starring Al Pacino and John Cazale.
- The original film is renowned for its delicate balance of comedy, suspense, and poignant romance, making it a difficult work to replicate on stage.
- Jon Bernthal stars as Sonny, originally played by Pacino, bringing a dynamic and energetic performance that emphasizes broad comedy and a charming buffoonery.
- Bernthal's portrayal infuses the character with desperate energy and unearned confidence, though the production sometimes tips too far into farce.
- Despite the difficulties, the production's ambition and Bernthal's performance may inspire audiences to root for its success against the odds.
