Review: Next To Normal, National Cinemas

Next to Normal premiered on Broadway in 2009, capturing the hearts and minds of musical theatre fans worldwide. What began in 1998 as a 10-minute workshop sketch titled Feeling Electric has since blossomed into a global phenomenon, with productions on five continents to date. When this production arrived at the Donmar Warehouse in 2023, it sold out almost immediately. So, when the run at the Wyndham Theatre was announced, it quickly became the hottest ticket of the summer.

This film edition is outstanding; a vital and timely addition to the growing collection of pro-shot musicals. It immortalises a moment in theatre history and tells a story that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so.

The show centres on Diana’s battle with bipolar disorder and how her family copes, intertwined with their grief over the loss of their son. But the cinematic version brings several other themes to the forefront more clearly than any stage recording could: mother-daughter relationships, identity, and, most starkly, the pitfalls of psychopharmacology. When Diana says that after 16 weeks on various drug regimens, she feels “nothing at all” and her doctor declares her “stable”, it’s a chilling commentary on the limits of modern medicine.

The cast of six is exceptional, working together in complete harmony. Eleanor Worthington-Cox is extraordinary as Natalie. While the character could easily come across as an unsympathetic brat complicating her mother’s life, Worthington-Cox delivers a nuanced, raw, and utterly real performance. Natalie’s downward spiral into uncontrollable drug use mirrors her mother’s loss of control after stopping her medication: both characters are desperate to feel something genuine. Jack Orfecio shines as Henry, completely adorable with his sweet, soulful voice and youthful energy, providing much-needed light and support to Natalie throughout her journey. Jack Wolfe as Gabe, the ghost of the family’s lost son, is hauntingly enticing, delivering some of the most popular songs in the score. Trevor Dion Nicholas as Dr Madden is brilliantly charismatic, a rock star presence who delivers comic relief at just the right moments. Jamie Parker is devastating as Dan, a man desperately struggling to keep his family together in the face of overwhelming pain and loss. Caissie Levy’s powerful, raw vocals and emotionally crushing performance could be said to be her best to date, a true powerhouse.

Capturing the essence of a live performance on film is never easy, and some moments lose a little impact. The end of Act 1, when the revolve reveals the devastating outcome of Diana’s struggle, isn’t quite as effective on screen as it is live. However, there are moments where filming truly enhances the experience, allowing the audience to catch subtle nuances that might otherwise be missed amidst the live stage’s bustle. The direction and cinematography highlight these moments brilliantly.

The score is electric, beautifully mixed and produced in both the film and the newly released recording. If you watch this film in the cinema, it’s definitely worth choosing a venue with an excellent sound system to experience the music in all its glory. Next to Normal remains a revelation that has stood the test of time. As raw and real as it was when it first premiered on Broadway in 2009, this musical is essential viewing. There’s something about it that will capture your heart and stay with you forever.

Music: Tom Kitt
Book & lyrics: Brian Yorkey
Director: Michael Longhurt
Movement & Choreography: Ann Yee
Designer: Chloe Lamford
Lighting: Lee Curran
Sound: Tony Gayle
Musical Direction: Nick Barstow
Musical Supervision: Nigel Lilley
Video Design: Tal Rosner

Next to Normal will be released in UK cinemas from Thursday 11 September