CAPSULE REVIEWS : Hoffman Uses Soft Sell in ‘Merchant’

Is Shylock, the infamous moneylender of William Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice,” victim or villain?

Dustin Hoffman opts for mild-mannered victim in Peter Hall’s straightforward, ungimmicky production of the play that opened Tuesday at Broadway’s 46th Street Theater. Hoffman was the reason this problematic comedy was a hot ticket in London last summer and why it was brought to Broadway for what looks like a sold-out 12-week run.

The star’s fans won’t be disappointed, but his almost genial approach robs the play of much of its emotional depth and Shylock of his complexity. Dressed in a flowing robe, his long hair pulled back tightly under a skullcap, the bearded Hoffman jokes and grins in a manner that would not be out of place in the current Lincoln Center revival of Paddy Chayefsky’s “The Tenth Man.”

Geraldine James, in the play’s real star role, is a radiant Portia, witty as well as intelligent, and with a charming competitiveness that would endear her to the most ardent feminist.

Her interpretation of the “quality of mercy” speech -- one of the best known in the Shakespeare -- is a revelation and the heart of the play. She speaks these lines as if she’s giving a bit of sensible advice rather than commanding the stage for a star turn.

Leigh Lawson is a sober-sided but not morose Antonio, the merchant whose life is nearly lost for friendship. Most of the younger performers in the large cast perfectly capture the gaiety of what are some of Shakespeare’s best romantic scenes. Nathaniel Parker is properly impassioned as the lovestruck Bassanio, while Michael Siberry is a terrific Gratiano, turning the usually long-winded boor into a funny, well-meaning best friend.

The play opened to general praise from Broadway critics for Hall’s production, and also for Hoffman. All said James gives the best performance.

Clive Barnes of the New York Post said Hoffman “triumphed--a deliberately modest triumph, but his own.” He also praised Hall’s production for being “refreshingly simple,” making Shakespeare a pleasure.

Linda Winer of New York Newsday questioned Hall’s production, saying it was difficult to understand the balance between tragedy and comedy. But she said Hoffman was “the best thing” about the play.

The Daily News’ Howard Kissel was the only critic to flatly criticize Hoffman. He said if Hoffman were an unknown actor, he would not have won the part. He also faulted Hall’s production, calling it abrasive.

Frank Rich of The New York Times said the production is unexpected because romance and comedy are restored, making it highly watchable. He said Hall’s Shylock does not dominate as would be normal in the play, but Hoffman’s performance is “a character actor’s polished gem.”

Dan Sullivan reviews “Merchant” in today’s Calendar section, F1.