I was lucky enough to not only see this onstage in London, but recently, I watched the screening, too. I have to say, it was amazing (both times). The production wasn't diminished at all by being screened; if anything, it shone more brightly, both in content and visuals.
I'm so glad I got to see it twice, because I generally absorb things more completely with repeated viewings.
I had great seats at the play, but the screened version allowed me to see details I hadn't caught in the live play. The costumes are just gorgeous, but seeing them on screen allowed me to really study the craftsmanship. For example, Aidan's shoes aren't just simple patent leather, (which I was sure of when seeing the stage version), but they had some sort of pimpy treatment; they glittered. They have either sequins or a crocodile texture. I think the latter, if I had to bet on it. His jewelry (along with everyone else's) is lovely, and you get a good eyeful of the rings he wears, as well as his sexy hands. And also his sexy chest, in a brief scene where his shirt is hanging open. Good lord.
He's so good in it; I really love his interpretation. On the way home from the screening, I kept thinking about it, and the one thing that really stood out (both times) was the vulnerability he brings to the role. It's a different experience without that, and the only one I have for comparison is the Glenn Close movie.
I'm linking my review from the stage version, where I do a bit more comparison between this production and the 1988 film.
I just wanted to encourage anyone who has the chance to catch this in theaters to make sure they do so--it was really well-done; and one of the stand-out performances of the spring season for the National.
Here's a link to the NT to check for screening times and cities.
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