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The first thought that came to my mind after reading this review was-why didn't Martin Short get this part like Mel Brooks wanted him too?
I remember seeing him on Letterman and Mel Brooks coming on and telling him to sign a contract to star in The Producers.
I think this would have made the stage play and movie more tolerable and gave him the fame he so deserved. Now, I like Matthew Broderick as much as the next guy, but he just isn't a showman, he's just an actor. There is a big difference. A showman can bring charm,warmth and (for the lack of a better word)pizazz to a performance in this type of no holds barred performance show, and an actor can just do the part and go along for the ride in hopes of trying to match his lead.
Gene Wilder was a showman, and was great for the original and only could be followed by someone with creds like Martin Short. I hope someone elses brings this up in public reviews and we can start the dislike(not hate since Mr. Broderick is a great guy but no showman. It's like getting Chis Klein to play Buffalo Bill In 'Annie get your gun.') for this performance since no one seemed to mention it in the reviews for the play. Furthermore, this is not a sole person's belief. I know many actors well versed in musical theatre who feel the same way but whose voices are not heard.
Sincerely,
Alfred Ramirez
