It's time for my review of Ink.Set in London, 1969, the brash young Rupert Murdoch purchases a struggling paper, The Sun, and sets out to make it a must-read smash which will destroy - and ultimately horrify - the competition. He brings on rogue editor Larry Lamb who in turn recruits an unlikely team of underdog reporters. Together, they will go to any lengths for success and the race for the most ink is on. I had previously seen Ink during its run in London and absolutely adored it. After seeing it the first time, Ink instantly became my favourite play of all time. As a consequence, I jumped at the opportunity to see it once again whilst in New York City.
Ink's story is gripping from beginning to end, giving its audience a fascinating insight into the world of journalism and the early days of 'The Sun' newspaper. Despite Ink being set in the 1960's, the play's recurring themes of using populism and mass media in order to attract high levels of popularity is still something which is likely to resonate with audiences today. Similarities have been made between the show's main character, Larry Lamb, and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerburg, both of whom created forms of media that would empower millions of people. Using populism in this manner can also be seen in modern politics as well, with the rise of politicians such as Nigel Farage and Donald Trump, both of whom have run on populist platforms and have claimed to speak for the masses. Whilst Ink does set its focus on journalism, its wider themes can be applied to a number of different aspects of society. I personally find the play to be thrilling from beginning to end, and even watching a second time my attention did not drift once. I was fully focused from beginning to end, and despite knowing what would happen, I still remained on the edge of my seat. James Graham's writing simply cannot be praised enough.
In the leading role of Larry Lamb, Jonny Lee Miller was exceptional. He provides an electric performance, and retains exceedingly high levels of energy from start to finish. Miller perfectly demonstrates the character's rising ambition, and cleverly portrays the effects that working in the world of journalism has on Lamb. It was a truly intriguing performance. Bertie Carvel, in the role of Rupert Murdoch, was equally outstanding. After first seeing Bertie in the role, he has since won both an Olivier Award and a Tony Award for his portrayal of the infamous media mogul, both of which are well-deserved awards. This performance is mesmerising, with Carvel nailing the role down to a tee. Every aspect of the performance is excellently and carefully carried out, including posture, movement, hand gestures and voice. Carvel has a very engaging persona, making him an absolute delight to watch. The entirety of this cast are marvellous and, despite the fact that the majority are American actors, their English accents were perfect.
The direction by Rupert Goold was sublime, who has helped to ensure that the pacing of Ink remains fast and upbeat throughout. I can remember stating in my previous review of Ink that the staging of this production was among the best I had ever seen, and a year and a half later I continue to stand by that statement. The scenic design, by Bunny Christie, encompasses a landscape of battered metal desks, stacked on top of each other in the form unsteady hills and valleys. The set was filled with immense detail, and felt very true to the style of a 1960's office. Christie also designed the costumes, which are also rather admirable and well-suited to the setting of the play. The lighting design, by Neil Austin, recently garnered a Tony Award and deservedly so. The lighting perfectly reflects the mood of the piece at several moments throughout the play, therefore helping to further the atmosphere.
Now for my final verdict on Ink. I give Ink...
Even after a second viewing, Ink remains my favourite play of all time. The intelligence of Graham's writing is really quite something, and believe that the themes explored within the play will continue to resonate with audiences for many decades to come. In addition to the writing, each and every single performance is flawless, whilst the direction and creativity also remain superlative. I simply cannot rave about Ink enough. Sadly, this production has now closed, but hopefully it will be making another appearance within the near future.
Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.
Thanks for reading!
-The Reviewer
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