Vladimir Putin’s rise to power is a fascinating story that has captivated the world. From a deputy mayor who still drives his parents’ car to becoming the de facto Russian dictator, Putin’s journey is the central narrative in the Broadway play “Patriots.” However, the focus of the play is not on Putin himself, but on the blustering oligarch who helped shape his ascent.
Written by renowned playwright Peter Morgan, creator of “The Crown,” “Patriots” delves into territory that may be unfamiliar to audiences in the West. The play premiered at the Almeida Theatre in London in 2022 and is now making its debut on Broadway. The opening scene sets the stage for what is to come, as Boris Berezovsky, played by Michael Stuhlbarg, declares, “In the West, you have no idea.” Morgan is clearly determined to challenge his audience.
The play’s premise of focusing on Berezovsky, a key figure in shaping post-Soviet Russia and instrumental in installing its authoritarian leader, is a promising one. However, “Patriots” suffers from a lack of focus and scale. While it attempts to dramatize historical incidents and backroom dealings, it only provides a thin sketch of the characters involved.
Berezovsky’s motivation is clear – he is driven by greed. He revels in his wealth and is always on the lookout for new ways to make money. Stuhlbarg’s portrayal of Berezovsky is captivating, with his stormy and gesticulating wittiness. However, his character is ultimately one-dimensional, solely driven by avarice. Despite his professed allegiance to democracy, it becomes apparent that his commitment is tied solely to his capitalist pursuits.
On the other hand, Putin, portrayed with bone-chilling reserve by Will Keen, emerges as the most intriguing character in the play. The moments when Keen showcases the inner workings of Putin’s mind are the most gripping. From his signature bullish posture to the twitching of his right hand, Keen’s performance captures the bottled intensity of a homemade bomb. However, the play keeps Putin at a distance, scattering its attention among other interconnected characters who are unevenly developed.
“Patriots” lacks the taut organizing principle that was present in Morgan’s previous political plays, such as “The Audience” and “Frost/Nixon.” It also relies heavily on contextual information, often making broad declarations regarding “the West” and “the Russian people.” While these elements provide necessary historical context, the play might benefit from further exploration of its characters and their fates.
Despite its flaws, “Patriots” sheds light on important aspects of recent history, particularly regarding the relationship between Berezovsky and Putin. The play reveals how Putin learned to control the media from his mentor and then turned the tables on him. It is a cautionary tale regarding the dangers of power and the possible consequences of alliances built on greed.
Looking beyond the play itself, there are broader implications and connections to be made to current events and emerging trends. The rise of authoritarian leaders in various parts of the world, the manipulation of media narratives, and the influence of powerful oligarchs are themes that continue to shape our global landscape.
In the future, we may see a further consolidation of power in the hands of a few, as well as increased efforts to control and manipulate the media. The play serves as a reminder of the need for vigilant monitoring of those in power and the importance of a free and independent press.
Additionally, the play highlights the role of wealth and greed in shaping political landscapes. As long as there are individuals driven solely by personal gain, there will always be the risk of alliances and actions that prioritize self-interest over the well-being of the people.
In conclusion, “Patriots” offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of power and manipulation. While it may fall short in certain aspects, it serves as a thought-provoking exploration of recent history and its implications for the present and future. As we navigate an evolving global landscape, it is crucial to remain vigilant and strive for transparency, accountability, and a fair distribution of power.
