Othello Is Missing the Tragedy
Tom Morris’s stage version of Shakespeare’s tragedy, featuring David Harewood as Othello and Toby Jones as Iago, captivates yet fails to capture the essential darkness at its core.
The Nature of Evil
Othello revolves around the question of what happens to righteous people when pure malice enters their world. To work, the evil must feel truly corrupt and unsettling. In this production, that impact weakens.
Visuals and Execution
The staging by Ti Green, with twisting arches above the stage and projected visuals representing Othello's thoughts, is deeply engaging. The performance moves swiftly, with nearly three hours passing effortlessly, creating rare fluency for a Shakespearean work. As entertainment, it is polished and impressive.
Iago and the Missing Darkness
Toby Jones, admired nationwide for his recent role in Mr Bates vs The Post Office, brings charm and intelligence to Iago. He interacts intimately with the audience, sharing his plans to destroy others simply for pleasure.
His manipulation leading Othello to believe Desdemona has betrayed him and pushing him toward a terrible act is mesmerizing to witness.
Yet, despite the brilliance of his delivery, Jones’s Iago risks appearing too likable, softening the sense of true malevolence that gives the tragedy its devastating power.
Author’s Summary
This production dazzles visually and emotionally but loses the brutal moral weight that defines Shakespeare’s Othello, leaving audiences admiring the craft more than fearing the fall.