Good writers borrow, great writers steal. Jacob McNeal is a great writer, one of our greatest, a perpetual candidate for the Nobel Prize in Literature. But McNeal also has an estranged son, a new novel, old axes to grind and an unhealthy fascination with Artificial Intelligence. Pulitzer Prize-winner Ayad Akhtar’s new play is a startling and wickedly smart examination of the inescapable humanity – and increasing inhumanity – of the stories we tell.
"I was hoping to see him break into song, but the play was a fantastic concept and his performance was raw, vulnerable at times and definitely had that RDJ swagger. I would definitely recommend checking this play out."
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Daniel B from Nampa on Oct 26, 2024
"This was an awesome and thought-provoking experience. There were some negative reviews, but obviously those reviewers either didn’t pay attention or didn’t understand any of the many story themes. The acting was superb by all cast members. RDJ did not disappoint. A perfect theatre evening. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Oct 25, 2024
"I very much enjoyed McNeal. The drama was riveting and the acting stellar."
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Pamela P from Houston on Oct 25, 2024
"The actors were fabulous, intense, funny. The mix of AI and scenery was nice. Not too much reading and no stage clutter. It was a pleasure to watch the scene changes. I loved the drop floor and the "box" for the doctor's office. RDJr has truly made it as an actor with the way he holds the stage. He looked so young. He looked so old. He just brought you into his struggle as McNeal. "
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KERRY H from Crossville on Oct 19, 2024
"What we liked:
Current topic that will resonate with everyone, amazing acting, great story, esthetics of the set.
What we didn’t like: Nothing. There is reference to incest so may not be suitable for children. Many reviews refer to confusing plot which we did not experience.
Parent and two 18 year olds.
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Broadway.com Customer on Oct 19, 2024
"This is a powerful play that utilizes AI as a backdrop for many of the failings of its main character. The powerful allure of fame coupled with self-destructive behavior and cruelty is entertaining as a result of the nuanced performances of this outstanding cast. It is well worth seeing this production. "
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Broadway.com Customer on Oct 14, 2024
"Robert Downey Jr is outstanding live but the supporting cast blew us away. There were many very emotions exchanges that will impact you. The play is well written and does an excellent job of contrasting the human experience with AI and makes you consider how it could impact our lives and values. Bravo! "
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Shaun P from Saskatoon on Oct 12, 2024
"This exploration of AI is delivered with exquisite clarity, humor, and thoughtfulness. Stage (scene) management was fluid and flawless. In all phases, this play was riviting. I could have relished another hour because of the great performances."
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Lawrence K from Diamond Valley on Oct 12, 2024
"Stellar and captivating performances by all! Robert Downey Jr. was excellent and the chemistry between Downey and his supporting cast made for a wonderful theatrical experience.
Regarding appropriateness for children, I took my kids (10 and 13 years old). They enjoyed the play (both RDJ fans) and my 13 year old (aspiring actor) wants to see it a second time. I think it was a nice introduction for him to more adult or mature plays, but there are definitely themes that might make parents hesitant to bring younger children. The play is clearly intended for an adult audience, but for some children (especially those with an interest in acting or theater) it could still be a valuable experience.
And, yes, I wrote this review with the aid of an AI-powered large language model."
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Bradley P from Memphis on Oct 6, 2024
"This was an outstanding performance by Robert Downey Jr. and cast. The story depicts the trial and tribulations of a Pulitzer Prize winning author named McNeal whose life is in turmoil due to dysfunctional family interactions and alcoholism in addition to the threats of AI felt by many writers. Some of the challenges loosely mimic RDJ’s own ups and downs throughout his career. However, the brilliant acting was awe inspiring and powerful leaving the sold out preview with a stunned and impressed audience ending in a standing ovation. Opening performance starts tomorrow."
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 29, 2024
"The entire cast was exceptional , and of course, Robert Downey Jr., was simply superb with his dialogue, wit, creativity, expressions, physical acting , vulnerability and comic relief amidst his incredible inner torment and pain.
As a father of a broken family who has endured his own the unique trauma and hardship the play had particular relevance and meaning, and I was very profoundly moved and grateful for the show. Thank you for the experience . When you are still thinking 🤔 about a play 24 hours later it says something. I highly recommend others to experience this moving and thought provoking performance !! Bravo!!!"
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Michael D from Conshohocken on Sep 21, 2024
"The narrative was fresh and actors provided a very personal oeuvre into their personalities and mindsets. It’s about relationships, human existence, family connections, survival, creative inspiration, intertwined with the reality of digital technology. How does one find inspiration to be able to express themselves creatively and authentically, in our society? "
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 20, 2024
"The play was very thought provoking! The cast were fabulous! No sign of the other cast being intimidated by the very talented RDJ! Loved it and would recommend it for anyone who has or hasn’t dabbled in AI! "
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Ann F from Valley Heights on Sep 20, 2024
"Robert Downey, Jr. has been one of my favorite actors since I was a child. When I realized on my trip that I would have the opportunity to see him, I couldn't resist. I snatched up one of the last few tickets. He was phenomenal, and the concept of the play was unique. For those of us that write, the concept of the use of AI is something we talk about. This book turned play addresses the things that all of us fear in one way or another: could AI write better than we can.
McNeal, the character, was particularly flawed, narcissistic, but highly intelligent and quick-witted. His relationships and things that happen with the other characters explore hidden psychological questions.
I greatly enjoyed the show. I think it is a bit theoretical and philosophical so some people may not enjoy that if you're thinking you're going to see an Iron Man because it is not subtle. It is thought-provoking and will leave you wanting more. I'm thrilled I got to see it in its preview phase. The supporting cast were also very fun and many of them recognizable, at least by face if not by name, from television and movies and all played the roles very well. "
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Shelley L from Shawnee on Sep 16, 2024
"Great show. Strong story that kept your interest the whole time and exceptional performances by entire cast especially RD jr."
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Broadway.com Customer on Sep 15, 2024
"Robert Downey Jr was excellent and a good story line. AI is writing history now. Nothing is real…"
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Susan S from Redwood City on Sep 15, 2024
"Play opens up a dialogue to our daily complex interactions we don't fully understand but can't deny it's impact on us. Consequences, vunrablity, motivations are discussed in transparency."
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Anchal J from Cliffside Park on Sep 12, 2024
"I haven't been so physically thrilled by the visual effects of a live event since U2-3D had its premiere at the 2008 Sundance Film Festival. Kudos to Jake Barton, Bartlett Sher, and all others responsible.
RDJ is spellbinding; he is speaking most of the dialogue in the 1:45 long no-intermission performance. The feat of memorization is a marvel, but his brilliant performance of those words is (chef's kiss).
Andrea Martin is a performer I've loved for over half a century & she is wonderful here.
My seat was in Center Right Orchestra, up close.
That probably added considerably to my enjoyment.
The material is challenging, sensitive subjects abound. It's not for everyone. But it was definitely for me."
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Ruth Ann H from Hampton Bays on Sep 11, 2024
"Robert Downey brought a flare, charisma and enthusiasm to the play.
An absolute must for theatre goers "
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sarah D from Porthcawl on Sep 7, 2024
"The subject matter is very current. Robert Downey Jr. gave an amazing performance.
The beginning seemed a little slow. When his agent entered the performance that energy really hit its stride.
Huge applause for a "Tony worthy" Broadway Play"
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Jeffrey W from Richmond on Sep 6, 2024
"McNeal was neither easy nor fun to watch. McNeal's character was morally inadequate in both his personal life as well as his writing - an inadequacy that spawned arrogance, selfishness, entitlement, along with a complete lack of empathy for anyone else. Yet McNeal was an award-wining author.
Within this deplorable narcissistic context, we were further challenged by issues of plagiarism and AI: are these simply two sides of the same coin, or is one side fraudulent and lazy, while the other merely the computerized/digital equivalent of normal creative cognitive processing?
Five days out and I'm still grappling with the unsettling question of whether I have EVER had an original idea - or instead, have all my ideas been borrowed (knowingly or unknowingly) from others?
In the end, like so many other complex social and political problems in today's world, questions regarding plagiarism and the application of AI are not simple binary issues - but instead, they exist on a continuum. Consequently humility, patience and an appreciation of nuance (rather than anger, intolerance and cancellation) are absolutely essential if we are ever to truly understand such problems or to have any hope of identifying humane and equitable solutions. "
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John C from London on Oct 28, 2024
"I loved the play! The actors did a marvellous job at delivering Akhtar’s story. The genius of Robert D. Jr.’s immense talent shown through. Brilliance. Delivered. What an honour to have witnessed such a work of art in my lifetime. "
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Hina A from Zurich on Oct 18, 2024
"I found the play to be very interesting and relevant to what is happening in today’s media.
Highly recommend!"
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Fabio B from Brooklyn on Sep 30, 2024
"First of all the set design & production was stellar. It was simple yet so classically done! Robert Downey Jr was the perfect actor to play this role. Entire cast was spot on, funny deliberate and emotional. Bravo"
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Sue W from lucas on Sep 21, 2024
"Very interesting and thought provoking. What is ethical when it comes to AI? Have we already opened Pandora’s box? All of that woven through the complications of life. While at times the plot is a little hard to follow, it’s an enjoyable way to spend an afternoon. "
