What I liked
Hal’s love for his father, even as he tells us the story of his unpredictable, painfully, emotionally abusive childhood, is what makes this work. We somehow don’t hate Dad at the end – although we should – and we don’t pity Rudnick, either. We are simply along for this “holy shit” ride, watching Hal bring his father to life with nothing but an oversized jacket, wire frames, and a maniacal grin.
What I didn't like
This piece doesn’t need much to be better but it would be interesting to see Rudnick’s interpretation of his mother somewhere along the way.
My overall impression
Rudnick saws open old wounds in this hilarious, biting and painfully honest portrayal of his father – unstable, unpredictable and a felon – whose life is one chaotic story after another, with young Hal and his family along for the ride.
