The Elephant Man at The Booth Theatre

The New York Times - Highly Recommended

"...But it is Mr. Cooper whom most ticket buyers have come to see. In interviews, he has said that he has been fascinated by Merrick's story since he was a boy. But what he brings to this production is the weight of years of being stared at as an adult, and he is the first star of his stature to take on the part in our post-Warhol world of celebrity obsession."

Hollywood Reporter - Highly Recommended

"...Acting is not a profession known for self-effacement, so it's refreshing that Cooper declines to take a solo bow. His performance is staggering in its physical discipline, its piercing emotional transparency and, most surprisingly, its restraint. Given that this production would never have happened without the star's commitment, watching him link arms and bow with the ensemble suggests a humility that somehow gives this old-fashioned but affecting play added resonance."

Entertainment Weekly - Recommended

"...You won't hear the phrase ''I am not an animal!'' uttered at any time during the sturdy but muted Broadway revival of The Elephant Man. (That now-famous bit is exclusively a product of David Lynch's transporting 1980 black-and-white film.) But the sentiment is still very much there, as Joseph ''John'' Merrick (gorgeously played by Bradley Cooper)-the cruelly disfigured man who claims his misshaped head ''is so big because it is so full of dreams''-continually finds himself at the service of the medical profession, curious onlookers, and even those looking to score a quick buck off of him."

amNY - Recommended

"...The revival, directed by Scott Ellis, is relatively simple and straightforward, thus directing our attention to Cooper and the excellent cast, which also includes Alessandro Nivola, Patricia Clarkson and Anthony Heald. It also benefits from being in one of Broadway's smaller theaters, adding much intimacy."

NBC New York - Highly Recommended

"...The dramatic tension in Pomerance's play peaks in the first act, when Merrick is pursued through a train station by a mob determined to "rip him to pieces." From there, it morphs into a character study. This "Elephant Man" will be best remembered for its deeply committed performance by Cooper, who joins a long line of actors-Hurt, Philip Anglim, David Bowie, Bruce Davison-to play him."