SOCRATES at the Public by Tim Blake Nelson - An Intellectual Powerhouse Production

Tim Blake Nelson is a character actor known for his roles in Coen Brothers films including "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs" and "Brother Where art Thou."  He is also a director, filmmaker and playwright.  Nelson's brilliant & provocative play "Socrates" at the Public Theater will establish him  as a seasoned playwright.  The intoxicating historic biopic swiftly runs over 3 hours and stars the unconquerable Michael Stuhlbarg ("Call Me by Your Name) as Socrates.  This intense & well acted performance is saturated in sagacious pretext.  Historians have difficulties in accurately depicting Socrates life or teaching as he left nothing in writing and there is rare documentation of his life.  Nonetheless, Nelson has created a credible and deeply moving portrait of one of the most widely known & enduring figures of western philosophy.  The drama embodies elenchus thinking which is to question everything and offer logical refutation.  This impressive & explosive production is a master class of discerning how to think.  The ancient philosopher's wisdom is very prescient in today's political climate where our democracy is being tested.  The first-rate cast surrounding Stuhlbarg and clever staging make this a must see powerhouse production.  SOCRATES leaves a lingering cerebral impact.  "To find yourself, think for yourself."