Alfred Molina delivers an intense performance playing the
character of Mark Rothko, a celebrated artist at the peak of his career who was
still tormented by his artistry and commitment to the message of his works.
He is a Russian artist who rises as in his career in the
late 1950’s trying to deliver his anti-establishment message in his works. I find it interesting that this is one
of the few great artists in history who is acclaimed during his life. Usually, artists die tormented and in
despair. They become famous after
their death. Anyway, the first
Rothko I remember seeing was in the English Garden museum in Munich. His works are usually huge canvases
with blocks of contrasting colors, usually primary colors. Red is one of them.
He is an obnoxious artist who treats his assistant with
disdain. The play takes place in
his studio as he debates his commission to create a series of paintings, which
will be displayed at the new Seagram Building’s restaurant, The Four
Seasons. He has risen to fame as an
anti-establishment artist whose work will be displayed ironically, in a luxury
environment. It was reported that
he wanted to create a series of paintings “that will ruin the appetite of every
son-of-a-bitch who ever eats in that room”.
I would see this play again and again because there are so
many witty, intellectual lines. I
even bought the screenplay from Amazon.
Very good and we both enjoyed it.
Alfred was perfect in this role.
We hated and admired his portrayal of Rothko.
