| Yes, Jackman presents the jovial glad-hander in all his scenes with the townspeople. That face is essential to his gaining their friendship and trust--and most importantly, their money. In his scenes with old partner-in-swindle, Marcellus, he shows a decidedly different face. Even late in Act II, with his hard look, he tells Marcellus he's "not resigning without my commission," meaning he's out to take advantage of Marian. I found those scenes believable and in marked contrast to the calculated, phony super-friendly "I'm one of you" game he's been successfully pulling -- until he realizes, dumbfounded, that he's been changed by Marian and the town. Some people may not like Zaks's take, but I found it very true to Willson's description of Hill as a "lovable rogue." It seems the SRO crowds agree with me. |
