Speed the Plow

Written by David Mamet

Narrated by Jeff Goldblum, Adam Arkin and Full Cast

Jaded Hollywood producer Bobby Gould has spent a career reaping what others sow, until the night he’s forced to choose between his loyal friend’s sure-fire hit and a beautiful girl’s art-house project. During a wicked evening of seduction and manipulation, Bobby discovers that the power he exerts is more elusive than it seems.

An L.A. Theatre Works full-cast performance featuring Jeff Goldblum, Adam Arkin and Dina Waters.

• Language: English
• Publisher: L.A. Theatre Works
• Release date: Jan 1, 2005
• ISBN: 9781580815178

David Mamet

David Mamet is one of the foremost American playwrights. He has won a Pulitzer prize and received Tony nominations for his plays, Glengarry Glen Ross and Speed-the-Plow. His screenwriting credits include The Verdict and The Untouchables.

Reviews for Speed the Plow

[James Robertson · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was very entertaining. I probably wouldn't have enjoyed it as much only reading it, but the cast and crew did a lovely job. There's no deep plot here, but nevertheless it did a great job killing a couple hours and I had a few laughs. 5/5

[Jennifer Ernst · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

It’s only Jeff Goldblum who makes the Mamet words tolerable.

[Dion Tilley · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I loved it. Wasn’t sure at first but as it went along it got better in my opinion.

[juva_3 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

After a lifetime of struggling, Bobby Gould has finally made it to the top. He's head of production now and finally has the authority to make films. Luckily, he buddy Charlie Fox has got the perfect film for him. It's going to make them both rich men. The two rejoice over their good fortune.

But then, the temporary secretary gets Bobby's ear. She reads one of the books that was submitted and believes it has an extremely compelling if abstract message. She spends the night trying to convince Bobby to make that film instead. This leads to a dramatic showdown in Gould's office.

[whitewavedarling · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Nowhere near all it's cracked up to be. For me, this is the bare bones of what could have been a decent play, but doesn't give you the depth or the detail or the devotion to make it believable. Perhaps some great character actors could pull it off as being entertaining, but it still wouldn't be all that memorable. Not one I'd recommend, regardless of the hype.