The earliest surprise comes when the murderous Harrison comes across as cordial and genuinely respectful of the widely lauded journalist who is determined to pick his brains. A homoerotic flirtation ensues, as the admittedly bisexual elderly writer drops seductive hints, arousing the young criminal's curiosity. "Are all sociopaths so charming?" Harrison asks the audience, in one of several brief segments of narration. But when the subject veers too close for comfort to Harrison's sexuality, the interviewee becomes uptight. However, most of the conversations center on political ideologies. Here again, James finds ways to disarm Harrison, as the scribe genuinely sympathizes with the terrorist's frustration with the U.S. government, without condoning his violent methods of protest. Despite the duo's differences in education and social class, moments of common intellectual ground are expressed—and prove enlightening.
Farrell wisely avoids a physical or vocal replication of Vidal, though his portrayal is temperamentally and intellectually spot-on, combining the fiery spirit of a determined sociopolitical critic with the self-satisfied air of an iconic literary figure. Parrack brilliantly depicts the contradictory sides of Harrison's psyche, as a man capable of moments of civility and social graces that ultimately give way to volatile emotions and twisted logic. The subdued but highly atmospheric production design is exemplary: M. Jenning Turner's set, Cameron Zetty's lighting, Bethany Jane Bohatila's costumes, and Warren Davis' sound.
Presented by Blank Theatre Company at the 2nd Stage Theatre, 6500 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Oct. 8-Nov. 14. Thu.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. (323) 661-9827. www.theblank.com.