Fallen Angels
It’s therefore a delight to see two such skilled actresses as Byrne and O’Hara, both using ultra-posh accents, willing to play against their striking beauty to get laughs, demonstrating both physical dexterity and perfect timing. At first, it seems as if everyone, the stars included, is trying express some stereotypical notion of what being in a Coward comedy requires, from the ultra-sophisticated speech, mannerisms, and elevated tone, and it takes a few minutes to begin seeing through the self-consciously lacquered veneer to the characters inside. Although Coward now and then comes through with a bon mot matching his reputation, much of the laughter is generated by throwaway comments and responses, gestures, facial expressions, and bodily reactions. Ellis creates amusing business with props, like long cigarette holders, and food, like strawberries. What Byrne does with a slinky green gown and veil, using her elegant slimness to visually hysterical advantage, will long remain in my memory, just as will the image of the glamorously blonde O’Hara, flopped upside down over a club chair as she ever so slowly slides down it to the floor. [more]