‘Sunset Boulevard’ Review: Nicole Scherzinger Delivers in a Technologically Audacious but Emotionally Empty Reimagining
variety.comDavid Benedict There’s a strong case for saying that the song “As If We Never Said Goodbye,” sung during Norma Desmond’s return to Paramount Studios in “Sunset Boulevard,” is Andrew Lloyd Webber’s finest dramatic moment since the chandelier first dropped in “The Phantom of the Opera.” It’s certainly his most richly persuasive song and the focal point of any production of “Sunset Boulevard.” With Nicole Scherzinger slammed into Jack Knowles’ fierce spotlight, the moment, as well as the character, most certainly arrives.
Whether it is sustained is another matter. Like almost everything in director Jamie Lloyd’s arresting new production, the effect is undeniably theatrical.
But is it always properly dramatic? Not for one second is there any doubt that Scherzinger has a dominating presence and magnificent money notes.
Not just as a performer but as a former “X-Factor” judge on both sides of the Atlantic, she knows exactly what wins audiences.
Read more on variety.com