National Theatre Live : A Small Family Business
National Theatre Live : A Small Family Business

Movie spotlight

National Theatre Live : A Small Family Business

2014
Movie
146 min
English

Alan Ayckbourn's riotous exposure of entrepreneurial greed returns to the National Theatre, where it premiered in 1987, winning the Evening Standard Theatre Award for Best Play.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: Lyndsey TurnerGenres: Drama, Comedy

Plot Summary

This National Theatre Live broadcast presents a darkly comedic play exploring the morally ambiguous world of a small family business. As Jack Maggowan takes over his father-in-law's business, he discovers a hidden, and increasingly corrupt, enterprise. The play delves into themes of greed, ambition, and the erosion of morality within a seemingly ordinary family structure.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews for the 2014 National Theatre Live broadcast are less common than for stage productions, the original play by Alan Ayckbourn is highly regarded for its sharp wit and incisive social commentary. Audiences and critics often praise Ayckbourn's ability to blend humor with serious underlying themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its clever and often shocking exploration of moral compromise.

  • Applauded for blending dark humor with a serious examination of greed.

  • Recognized for its insightful portrayal of the corrosive effects of ambition.

Google audience: Audience reception for specific National Theatre Live broadcasts can vary, but generally, performances are lauded for bringing high-quality theatre to a wider audience. The play itself is known for its thought-provoking nature.

Awards & Accolades

None notable for the specific broadcast, but the play 'A Small Family Business' by Alan Ayckbourn has received critical acclaim.

Fun Fact

Alan Ayckbourn's 'A Small Family Business' was originally staged at the Olivier Theatre, National Theatre, in 1987.

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