What I liked
Joe Coffey fires on all cylinders in this 40 minute one-man show that will keep you intrigued the instant he takes the stage. It’s a mountain of a performance, showcasing the quality and depth of Mr. Coffey’s formidable talent, as he deftly brings to life a wide array of characters. In one moment, he draws you in with humor or poignancy, and in the next, he captures your attention in a choke-hold of fury and pathos. BULGER BOYS takes you on a roller coaster of emotions, but it is also educational. To his credit, Mr. Coffey doesn’t cast judgment on the characters he brings to life, choosing instead to explore what makes them tick, and thus, revealing their humanity. It leaves you with something to ponder, which makes this piece more than just entertainment. I highly recommend that you see this show!
What I didn't like
The show as it stands, absolutely works. As Joe Coffey continues to develop or refine it, I would like to see a bit more of the transformation that James “Whitey” Bulger goes through as he eventually becomes the man that history remembers him as. We do see flashes of his childhood and a stint with experimental drugs, but perhaps an added scene or two that continues to flesh out Whitey’s journey would round things out more fully. While fury and lashing are equated with being monstrous, seeing Whitey settle into calmness could be even more chilling.
My overall impression
If you enjoy intense, dynamic and visceral live-theatre experiences that stick with you after they end, this is a must-see!
