A review by kamrynharned
Marvin's Room: A Play (Plume drama) by Larry Kramer, Scott McPherson

challenging emotional funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A free library book success.  This play was winsome, quirky, challenging and sad.  The humor was perfectly understated.  It highlighted the challenging undercurrents of relationships so well, and beautifully displayed the satisfaction that can come from a life of service. It makes me wonder why some plays take off and become classics (like Our Town) and why some receive some acclaim when they come out but fizzle quickly. To me, this had all the ingredients for a classic. I also found it so meaningful to read the play with an understanding of the author’s own terminal diagnosis - it felt like I was watching him process his own terminal condition and what it would mean for his loved ones.  I would love to see this play performed, but in the mean time, this is a new favorite that has earned a place on my shelf. 
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