Vanya on 42nd Street
- Phoebe Brand: Nanny
- Lynn Cohen: Maman
- George Gaynes: Serybryakov
- Jerry Mayer: Waffles
- Julianne Moore: Yelena
- Larry Pine: Dr. Astrov
- Brooke Smith: Sonya
- Wallace Shawn: Vanya
- Madhur Jaffrey: Miss Chao
Vanya on 42nd Street is a film from the year 1994, which was directed by Louis Malle. It is based on the play Uncle Vanya by Anton Pavlovich Chekhov.
Location
The film was shot in New York's New Amsterdam Theatre on 42nd Street. The film shows a group of actors who meets to rehearse the play Uncle Vanya. This play without backdrops, while taking street clothes. In the middle of the piece a break is made, eaten, and it will continue to play.
Criticism
" A play about a wasted life, full of Weltschmerz, located in the depths of the Russian soul. Outstanding performer, a clever cinematic concept and excellent camera work make the film an experience to the viewers, however, have to get involved. "
Stylistic devices
The film is minimalist in style and waives costumes and backdrops. Due to the quality of the actors and the play the audience forgets the minimalist style and focuses on the proffered play.
Background
- The main character, Shawn, theater director Gregory and film director Malle had already worked together in 1981 for the film My Dinner with Andre.
- Director Gregory and a group of actors rehearsing the play Uncle Vanya at New York's Amsterdam Theater on 42nd Street. The actors wore normal street clothes and left to a select audience, which had to pay any entrance fee. Gregory and Malle decided to make a film of this type of representation.
- It was Malle's last film.