The Importance Of Being Earnest (1986)

Two friends discover that they have invented fictional beings in order to avoid social responsibilities. One (Paul McGann) has invented an irresponsible brother and the other (Rupert Frazer) invented a sickly friend. However, this deception comes back to haunt them when their respective loves (Amanda Redman, Natalie Ogle) discover the deceptions. Based on the 1895 farce by Oscar Wilde and directed by Stuart Burge. Wilde's most popular (and most performed) play is so cleverly constructed that one could almost assume it's fool proof. On the page, it is. Its unraveling often comes because of the performances and direction. Wilde's characters are often notoriously self centered and snobbish so charm and line delivery are key to accepting their characters. In this particular production, Frazer's Algy is charmless and his line readings turn wit into lumps of dough so that he comes across as unappealing and as Cicely, Ogle's comedic skills aren't obvious. Two of the actors, however, seem to understand Wilde perfectly. Redman's Gwendolyn shows shrewdness in her performance and Joan Plowright as Lady Bracknell seems born to play her. With Alec McCowen and Gemma Jones.