Review of ‘Two Halves of Guinness’: “Star-driven subject creates great expectations, but the force isn’t with the script”

What I like the most about this actor- the one portrayed, that is -is that he made an annoying little kid cry with class and politeness. For the record, the child was just a fan who asked him to deliver his most famous (and apparently, misquoted) line. Nothing wrong with that, but I’m a critic. And to some, that means sucking the joy out of everything and living off some other people’s misery.

No introductions are needed when talking about Sir Alec Guinness, who many regard as one of the finest thespians of his generation — and understandably so. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that a biopic has made it into the London stage, although some may argue- my plus one included -that this is the last thing he would have wanted. Not out of vanity but humility. And perhaps if he came to see it, he would have dismissed the work in a similar way to how he traumatised one of his youngest fans — hilarious, though.

He might have given it a chance, nonetheless. Even if that meant facing the most sordid elements of his past. That’s probably the best trait in Mark Burgess’s script, which combines the ups and downs of his prolific career across theatre, film, and television with the most secretive aspects of his personal life.

Those who have devotedly followed his legacy will be able to gorge on the hundreds of fun facts this first-person recount supplies. And those who barely knew anything about him will be enticed to learn more about his exciting career and a few convoluted relationships. Yet, from a storytelling perspective, it doesn’t feel like it’s enough.

While the piece takes us on an engaging journey through Guinness’s metamorphosis from broken-household underdog to world-class actor, the text doesn’t delve into the character’s inner layers with sufficient depth. There’s an introduction to those intimate features, but not a real grasp, slipping through the script’s fingers the moment it’s grasped, and eventually, in an incomplete exploration, which might not be shallow, but it’s nonetheless unfulfilling.

At the same time, the approach comes off as overly narrated. The fact that it’s a one-man show shouldn’t excuse this mistake. It’s a classic case of the “show, don’t tell” rule being ignored. It doesn’t matter if the intention is to convey an intimate, memoir-like style. The scenes need to speak for themselves rather than being constantly described by a third party. And so do the characters — especially when it’s delivered by such a superb player.

Zeb Soanes’s exquisite interpretation is confidently the most solid reason one could find to come to the theatre. At least, in terms of acting prowess. His commanding presence, vigorous flair, and rich register consolidate his status as an exceptionally gifted performer, putting the utmost care, understanding, and craftsmanship into every single role regardless of its size.

Slightly flawed in pacing and lacking a proper show-stopper and a more climactic finale, Two Halves of Guinness is still in the process of finding the voice, focus, and resources to turn this celebration of a film and theatre legend into a legend of its own. Some sections will still guarantee an enjoyable evening for those in attendance. Yet, just like its protagonist, it has too much worth to only get a smiley.

All pictures credit to Danny Kaan.

Two Halves of Guinness plays at London’s Park Theatre until 2 May. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara