Three Days of Rain

After a long wait, last night I finally got to see Three Days of Rain starring Julia Roberts, Paul Rudd and Bradley Cooper. Surprisingly, I didn't love it. I had trouble connecting with the characters and storyline. Basically, it's the story a brother & sister and their childhood friend who all meet in New York to divide the legacy of their late fathers, who were partners in a renowned architecture firm. The three search for clues that might explain what had gone on between their fathers, and the women in their lives, decades before. The story then shifts to that earlier time, with the same three actors portraying the previous generation.

The main thing everyone wants to know of course is how Julia was. I'd say first off surreal . Sitting about 6 inches from her made it difficult for me to concetrate on the dialogue being delivered. And yes, she is definitely as gorgeous in person. It was crazy to see her fall into some of her signature Julia expressions. And my is she all legs! Her acting, though, was not as strong as I would've expected. When she first entered the stage she seemed very nervous, shredding a tissue in her hand, speaking a little shaky, and stuttering over a couple of lines. After she settled in, she did really get into character though. Paul Rudd's performance was much better in the second act than the first. In fact, I liked the second act better which usually isn't the case for most shows. Bradley Cooper may just have outshined the big star with his performance.

Finally, I need to mention the set. It was a run down NY loft apartment. Really liked it visually. However, yes indeed, it did rain - pour actually - so those of us sitting up close did get wet. It was bad enough that they gave some people who were seated in the wettest areas (the right side of the stage) a plastic tarp to cover up with since they do an entire scene with the rain pouring down!

Overall, would I recommend it? Why not? When do you ever have the opportunity to see Julia Roberts perform live. I'm sure she will only get better as the run progresses. And of course it can only strengthen her film acting abililities. Tonight is the opening night so I'll be curious to see what the real critics say. Last night the audience seemed very underwhelmed, in fact only about 3 people gave them a standing ovation.

Lastly, don't even attempt to get her autograph. Outside the theater following the show it was TOTAL chaos.