American Buffalo

American Buffalo at the Gate.
I think my only problem with this production is amazingly enough with David Mamet's script! Its a well written piece as ever, and has the usual level of interesting banter between the various players, but it never really moves above it!
It was possibly the only major piece of his work that i was not familiar with, and i had expected quite a bit from it. It has the feel and general structure of Glengarry Glenross, but lacks a few of the twists that draw the viewer into the story, as they try to peice together what really happened.
In fact, there is very little plot at all to the piece. A robbery that never happens is the jist of the story, but i guess that isn't as important as to why it never happens and the dynamics between the characters involved.
The three main actors are all worthwhile, and the gate has done its usual trick of drawing in a big name, in this case, our own Aiden Gillen (star of Queer as folk and starting to make a name for himself in the states) is the main draw.
The set is a convincing version of a curiosity shop from the mid 70's, other than a few pieces that don't look quite old enough!
It is certainly an entertaining piece, and a worthwhile way to spend an afternoon or night, just lacks some depth.
3/5