The Reporter

Genre: Drama
Opened 21 Feb 2007
Written: by Nicholas Wright
Directed: Richard Eyre
Produced: National Theatre
Cast: Ben Chaplin (James Mossman), Paul Ritter, Angela Thorne, Bruce Alexander, Leo Bill, Patrick Brennan, John Cummins, Aleksandar Mikic, Chris New, Angelo Paragoso, Gillian Raine, Tilly Tremayne
Synopsis: Based on the remarkable life of the star BBC correspondent James Mossman during his last years, 1963 to 1971, The Reporter searches for the truth behind his bewildering suicide. What lies beneath the surface? Or is the surface ultimately all there is?

What the critics had to say.....
NICHOLAS DE JONGH for THE EVENING STANDARD says, "So drawn and moved by the forgotten tragedy of James Mossman...Fascinating play, witty." SARAH HEMMING for THE FINANCIAL TIMES says, "Never less than absorbing...Richard Eyre's production combines a seductive, brooding atmosphere with wonderful comic details. Yet the piece also frustrates. It does not give enough substance to Mossman's reputation for brilliance..." RHODA KOENIG for THE INDEPENDENT says, "Unfortunately, Ben Chaplin, for most of the evening, stands with his arms folded across his chest and speaks in a guarded tone of voice. He's lovely to look at, but the lack of charm or command (at least one is a newsman's necessity) is obvious." MICHAEL BILLINGTON for THE GUARDIAN says, "The play is given a perfectly pitched production from Richard Eyre and a commanding performance from Ben Chaplin...But, much as I enjoyed the evening, it is one that, like Mossman himself, leaves its mysteries unresolved. " BENEDICT NIGHTINGALE for THE TIMES says, "Pacy production and Chaplin's fine, measured performance..."

External links to full reviews from popular press
The Independent
The Guardian
Financial Times
The Times

Production photos by John Haynes