A couple has thirty minutes to decide whether to erase the memory of their failed relationship. A perfect dilemma for a drama, with scope to go in many directions. Unfortunately, the script can’t decide which direction to take.
There are a lot of good qualities to this play... the script, however, meanders without any through-line or consistency
There are lots of good qualities to this play: the discussions are insightful and expose dramatic revelations and conflicts; there are engaging flashbacks with good jokes about embarrassing situations, trying to impress, and passive-aggression. The characters feel real, and the chemistry between the actors is good.
The script, however, meanders without any through-line or consistency. The opening monologue divides people into two types. Yet these types don’t fit the characters. It is pointed out that anything said in the 30 minutes will be wiped. Yet this idea is not developed.
The focus may be relationships, but if the play is based on a science fantasy premise there needs to be clear rules. It is not discussed what happens if one person wants to keep the memories. The flashbacks are like shared visions, yet ‘the kiss with Sam’ has two versions. Does that mean the other flashbacks are untrustworthy?
The final scene repeats their first meeting, including all the very particular circumstances and details. So is the ending a flashback or has fate engineered them to meet again? And did they wipe their memories or not? Is the ending meant to be ambiguous, or is it just unclear?
Good for exploring a relationship, not so hot for plot.
