Brie Larson's West End Debut in 'Elektra' Divides Critics

Daniel Fish's experimental take on Sophocles' tragedy earns praise for ambition but faces criticism for its execution.

Brie Larson stars as Elektra in her London stage debut, portraying the vengeful heroine with a punk-inspired aesthetic and amplified delivery.
Critics highlight director Daniel Fish's avant-garde approach, including heavy use of microphones, a minimalist set, and a singing chorus, as both ambitious and polarizing.
Praise is directed at Stockard Channing’s nuanced performance as Clytemnestra, though other cast members are noted as underutilized or overshadowed by the production's style.
Anne Carson's poetic translation of Sophocles' text is widely regarded as compelling, but its impact is diminished by the production's distracting elements.
The production has been described as visually and aurally striking but criticized for lacking emotional resonance and coherence in delivering the play's tragic themes.