Red

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.