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A review by sanperse
Die Panne: Ein Hörspiel und eine Komödie by Friedrich Dürrenmatt
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I went into this with high expectations, and came out somewhat underwhelmed.
It is an interesting examination of how guilt and innocence can be framed and re-framed, and justice becomes absurd, as it becomes a mere game and evening's entertainment. (Or is it more than that?)
I also found it fascinating that the audio drama and the theatre play had different endings.
"Die Panne" is a quick read, the story and its twists are fast-paced, and its absurdity does border on the comical at times. But, damn, did I find the characters grating and the the sexism, especially present in the play, hard to stomach. I also found the play much less funny than I expected, considering it is named a "comedy".
I do wonder if I would feel differently seeing on stage, considering that a good cast can really elevate a play, but as it stands, I don't find it a good read. I do still quite like Dürrenmatt, but I would recommend starting anywhere other than here.
It is an interesting examination of how guilt and innocence can be framed and re-framed, and justice becomes absurd, as it becomes a mere game and evening's entertainment. (Or is it more than that?)
I also found it fascinating that the audio drama and the theatre play had different endings.
"Die Panne" is a quick read, the story and its twists are fast-paced, and its absurdity does border on the comical at times. But, damn, did I find the characters grating and the the sexism, especially present in the play, hard to stomach. I also found the play much less funny than I expected, considering it is named a "comedy".
I do wonder if I would feel differently seeing on stage, considering that a good cast can really elevate a play, but as it stands, I don't find it a good read. I do still quite like Dürrenmatt, but I would recommend starting anywhere other than here.
Content Warnings
Minor: Sexism, Suicide, and Alcohol