Off-Off Broadway September 02, 2004

Let There Be Light...!
Reviewed By Irene Backalenick

Here is a strong documentary piece that focuses on four veterans in recovery mode. Though the time is post-World War II, the theme is equally relevant today -- and could apply to the aftermath of any war. In fact, alas, it would seem to be a timeless theme, an inherent part of human history. These four young soldiers are battling with the aftereffects of active combat. They have witnessed killings or killed others themselves, and are left with nightmares that haunt them and psychopathic symptoms that cripple them.

" Let There Be Light…!," based on John Huston's 1946 film documentary (which waited until 1981 before the Army allowed it to be seen), has been turned into a short drama by writers Jen Ellison and Dave Stinton. While the psychological problems of returning soldiers is not a new subject, "Let There Be Light…!" focuses on a period not usually addressed -- namely, the transitional period from battle time to civilian life.

Staged with harsh simplicity, with a set replicating an Army hospital, the scene discloses four soldiers. All are stationed at their cots while the psychiatrist, seen at the rear of the stage, deals with each in turn. One stutters, another cannot walk, and a third has lost his memory. As the soldiers mock each other and themselves as well, a kind of bonding emerges. Gradually, problems are met and recovery painfully achieved as the psychiatrist uses the battery of techniques in his arsenal. Only a fourth soldier, whose problems are more vaguely defined, does not achieve recovery. And the doctor himself must battle his own demons in the process.

All five actors -- Peter De Giglio, Joe Janes, Chad Reinhart, James Yeater, and Peter James Zielinski -- turned in strong, believable performances.