Scarlett Johansson steps into the iconic role of Maggie the Cat in the latest rendition of Tennessee Williams’ “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” on Broadway.
The play, a gripping tale of a wealthy Southern family torn apart by greed and desire, has seen multiple adaptations on Broadway, with this being its sixth incarnation, including three within the last decade.
Johansson’s portrayal of Maggie, the determined daughter-in-law vying for her share of the family estate, garnered attention as she navigates the complexities of her marriage to Brick, played by Benjamin Walker. The critical reception, however, was a mixed bag.
Ben Brantley of the New York Times praised Johansson’s “imposing presence and adventurous intelligence” while noting a few missteps in her portrayal.
He highlighted her portrayal as a “lifeline” in an otherwise lackluster production directed by Rob Ashford, primarily known for his work in musical theater.
On the other hand, Linda Winer of Newsday found the production “strangely unmoored,” with Johansson’s performance veering towards “sensitive, levelheaded, ladylike restraint” rather than embracing the character’s full potential. Winer lamented the lack of passion and intensity, echoing similar sentiments about the overall production.
Joe Dziemianowicz from the New York Daily News criticized Johansson’s portrayal as “alarmingly one-note,” feeling that the weight of Williams’ drama overshadowed her. He highlighted issues with the production’s execution, particularly the intrusive music and sound effects.
Mark Kennedy of the Associated Press commended Johansson for infusing humor and desperation into her performance but faulted the director for overwhelming the production with unnecessary elements, detracting from the actors’ efforts.
In summary, while Johansson’s debut on Broadway showcased her talent and commitment to the role, the “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” production received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising individual performances. In contrast, others criticized the overall execution of the play.
