Review of ‘Blue Mist’: “Enticing premise ends up going up in smoke”

I keep thinking that the most interesting aspects about this play are the ones that never made it. I’m not getting metaphysical. It’s a plain observation. There’s so much that this piece offers. But there’s even more that could have been brought into it. A lot more. The germ for an absorbing drama remains latent throughout Mohamed-Zain Dada’s script. But besides sowing that seed, there’s not much else to reap from what, in the end, comes off as a highly underdeveloped work of fiction.

Three lifelong friends in their regular shisha cafe. It’s the same conversation as in every gathering. Some casual catch-up, a little foolish banter, and the usual uncertainty about what their lives will go on to be. Rashid wants to open a gym. Jihad just wants to find his other half. And then there’s Asif, who has a different dream. Perhaps, the biggest of the three.

Encouraged by his pals, he submits his idea to a journalism contest, which earns him the chance to make his own documentary for a major radio station. From then on, the sky’s the limit. But things take a darker turn when he decides to depict his own community through an unfavourable lens. And as his career ascends, his relationship with those who were there for him at the beginning begins to fall apart.

The plot has all the ingredients to engage, move, and resonate. Through a gripping conflict, it raises several compelling topics, ranging from racial prejudice to cultural coexistence and self-awareness. The issue lies in its vacuous approach. The text scratches the surface hard enough to pulp out some substance. But ultimately, the profundity and thought-provoking qualities it achieves are rather basic.

Whether the author prefers to take sides or leave it to the audience’s discretion, the show needs to refocus on Asif’s inner duel, which is introduced but barely fleshed out. A deeper exploration of his views and how they are formed is crucial for the character to work — and for his journey to materialise. In the end, his arc is rather sketchy, as it’s reduced to a few passing comments apart from his colleagues’ manipulation. Consequently, the role comes off as one-dimensional, lacking complexity and growth. And inevitably, his impact goes down significantly.

Most scenes are adroitly executed. Although there’s not too much subtext, Dada’s writing demonstrates conversational flow and occasional wit, albeit mostly unfunny. For the most part, the pacing is satisfactory, and the tension builds up adequately, making the recount more appealing despite its developmental flaws.

The cast makes a formidable effort to infuse their performances with rapport and an overall sense of wholesomeness, which contributes to the roles’ inviting essence. As a result, we are charmed by their goofiness, which becomes their armour in some way. In addition, although sometimes slightly flat, the renditions also brim with truthfulness, cementing our care for the personages and their destiny. Among them, the highest praise goes to Omar Bynon’s intricate interpretation, whose broad emotional range is equalled by a competent multi-character register.

While its premise hints at a challenging narrative, Blue Mist‘s potential gets lost in a slightly shallow script that tiptoes rather than delving into its story’s most provocative elements. Although the protagonists’ backgrounds and bonds are decently established, there’s still a whole ocean of dramatic opportunities waiting to be taken, which are imperative to make the desired effect. As harsh as that may sound, it’s the kind of criticism they should put in their pipe and smoke.

All pictures credit to Ali Wright.

Blue Mist is on tour until 30 July. Tickets for London’s Theatre Royal Stratford East are available here. It will be followed by the Birmingham Rep and The Curve Leicester.

By Guillermo Nazara