The Smile of Her review explores Christine Lahti's autobiographical show, which speeds through resonant pains of family life, feminism, and the entertainment industry. In just 90 minutes, Lahti addresses many emotional pressure points, from misunderstandings between mothers and daughters to her career trajectory and a post-#MeToo reflection on showbusiness. The performance, directed by Mêlisa Annis, features a young actor (Isabella Ford on press night) representing Lahti's child self, adding drama and dialogue, though not enough to fully deepen the narrative.
Key Themes in The Smile of Her
Family and Perfectionism
Lahti describes her family as a midwestern version of the Von Trapps on steroids, emphasizing her parents' demand for plastic-covered happiness. Her mother smiled through suppressed pain, while her father used a belt for discipline. The stage design, with a white sofa covered in upscale plastic, evokes the sterility of her 1950s Michigan home.
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Feminist Awakening and #MeToo
Lahti's journey includes a second wave feminist awakening and a stark look at the casting couch norm. She was told she was too tall and not pretty enough to succeed, and expected to attend hotel meetings with sexual demands. This contrasts with her achievements, like winning a Golden Globe while in the toilet.
Comparison: The Smile of Her vs. Other Autobiographical Shows
| Aspect | The Smile of Her | Typical Autobiographical Show |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | 90 minutes | 60-120 minutes |
| Focus | Family, feminism, career | Single theme or period |
| Use of Multimedia | Back-screen images, video clips | Often minimal or none |
| Emotional Depth | Mixed, with rapid pacing | Deeper, slower exploration |
Key Takeaways
- Rapid pacing covers many issues but limits dramatic intensity.
- Powerful themes include mental illness, rape, and untimely death.
- Strong performances from Lahti and Ford, though dialogue is sparse.
- Stage design effectively evokes 1950s sterility.
FAQ
What is The Smile of Her about?
The Smile of Her is Christine Lahti's autobiographical stage show covering her childhood, career, feminist awakening, and #MeToo reflections on Hollywood.
Who directs The Smile of Her?
Mêlisa Annis directs the show, with a young actor (Isabella Ford on press night) portraying Lahti's child self.
What are the main themes in the show?
Key themes include family perfectionism, mental illness, feminist awakening, and the casting couch culture in showbusiness.
Overall, The Smile of Her is a resonant but rushed journey through Lahti's life, offering a mix of humor and pain. While the 90-minute speed limits depth, the performances and multimedia elements make it a compelling watch for those interested in autobiographical theater and feminist narratives.
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