Birth of Classic Noir Film Triumphantly Told in 'Billy & Ray'

If you’re looking for a play about what it takes to write a film, look no further than the world premiere of Mike Bencivenga’s Billy & Ray playing at the Falcon Theatre in Burbank through April 28.  

This is the story of the collaboration of director Billy Wilder and writer Raymond Chandler in 1940s Hollywood to write the film noir classic Double Indemnity by getting it past the censors.  

This is more than a play, it is a testimonial to screenwriting and the spirit behind it. It shows that writing for the screen can be considered as much of an art form as poetry or fiction and requires an equal amount of dedication.  

The blood, sweat and tears shed by Wilder and Chandler go above and beyond the call of duty for creating a screenplay.  

Bencivenga’s writing is a brilliant breath of fresh air that underscores the personal and professional struggles both men overcome in putting together this seminal enterprise.  

Bencivenga gets every dangling modifier and transitive adverb correct in what is nothing short of brutally realistic, funny and down-to-earth playwriting.  

Director and Falcon owner Garry Marshall parlays his many years in Hollywood into an authentic on-stage presence, which fervently, uniquely and passionately examines the Hollywood system directly following the war, censors and all.  

Marshall lends his comedic timing, wit and depth to all four actors, but especially Kevin Blake, who plays Wilder.  

Anthony Starke (Joe Sistrom) is convincing and straight-laced.  

Ali Spuck (Helen Hernandez) is engaging and provocative as Wilder’s assistant. 

Shaun O’Hagan ( Chandler) gives a multi-faceted portrait in which he mines Chandler’s dark side without becoming overly melodramatic.  

Blake (Wilder) steals the show with a brilliantly eccentric performance of great humor, depth and importance. He portrays Wilder the man as well as the artist with what appears to be ease. This is one of the best performances this critic has seen so far this year.  

Billy & Ray is a towering success not only because it is realistic, but also because like with any great work, it is honest.  The Falcon has saved the best production of its 2012-13 season for last.  

The humor here will not soon be forgotten, but the chance the theatre took on Bencivenga’s words reverberates much deeper than any laugh.

Showtimes are Wed.-Sat. at 8 p.m., Sun. at 4 p.m.

Prices: Wed/Thurs: $34.50-$37 Fri/Sat/Sun: $39.50-$42 Student Rate (valid student ID): $27. Reservations and information call 818-955-8101.