Review: Dr. Strangelove

by Mike Matthaiakis

In a bold and hilariously dark new stage adaptation, Armando Iannucci and Sean Foley bring Dr. Strangelove to life with a modern twist that still echoes the absurdity and terror of Kubrick’s Cold War classic. Steve Coogan brilliantly takes on not three but four eccentric roles, a feat of fast costume changes and quick-witted performance that captivates the audience as he transforms seamlessly into each outlandish character.

Coogan’s portrayal of the upper-crust RAF Captain Mandrake is particularly enjoyable, with his exaggerated British composure breaking down in the face of the increasingly absurd conspiracy theories and chaos surrounding him. He doubles as the clueless US President Muffley, who somehow becomes the voice of reason in an atmosphere thick with paranoia and incompetence. And then there’s Coogan’s cowboy bomber pilot, Major TJ Kong, whose enthusiasm for nuclear destruction is both alarming and uproariously funny.

Perhaps Coogan’s most memorable role is the unnervingly camp, wild-haired Dr. Strangelove, the Nazi scientist with a life of his own in his twitching black-gloved hand that shoots up into a Nazi salute at the worst moments. Coogan’s Strangelove is a mesmerizing caricature, navigating the absurd balance of horror and humor in a way that feels just as relevant in today’s precarious global climate as it did in the original film.

The production’s staging, designed by Hildegard Bechtler, whisks us between the Pentagon’s War Room, a cramped bomber cockpit, and the tense airbase with an impressive efficiency that keeps the audience fully immersed in each setting. Music and sound effects add a clever framing to the scenes, including Vera Lynn’s wartime tunes and humorous interludes that capture the absurdity of the stakes at play.

Beyond the laughs, the show’s sharp commentary on human folly resonates deeply. Iannucci’s script captures the twisted logic and chaotic brinkmanship that govern political decision-making, all the while skewering humanity’s darkest tendencies with unflinching satire. From government officials bickering over minor points like the Oxford comma to the ludicrous notion of “pre-taliation” against perceived threats, every line strikes a nerve with modern sensibilities.

The supporting cast is exceptional, with John Hopkins delivering a frighteningly unhinged performance as the conspiracy-driven General Ripper and Giles Terera as the war-loving General Turgidson, who smacks gum and talks war with disturbing casualness. Tony Jayawardena’s Russian ambassador and Mark Hadfield’s bungling advisor are equally hilarious, each adding layers of bureaucratic absurdity to this kaleidoscope of chaos.

While Dr. Strangelove is brilliantly adapted and consistently funny, there are moments where the production feels too controlled, missing the full comic chaos that might elevate it to five stars. Sean Foley’s direction keeps the pace brisk, but at times, it feels too polished, with Coogan’s performances lacking the raw, unfiltered energy that might bring even more life to the absurdities on stage. Additionally, the adaptation sticks close to the original script, sometimes playing it safe rather than leaning into more daring, modern references that could give fresh layers to the satire. These limitations don’t detract too heavily from the experience, but they do keep the show just short of perfection.

Coogan’s energetic performance and Iannucci and Foley’s faithful yet updated script make Dr. Strangelove a riotous theatrical experience, capturing the wild humor and unrestrained satire that has kept Kubrick’s original film resonant. In a time when the world once again feels uncertain, this adaptation offers both biting satire and a much-needed release through laughter – as well as a chilling reminder of how easily power games can lead to catastrophe.

Until January 25 –  Noel Coward Theatre