‘Geniuses’: Misogyny and Power-Tripping

Trading on its author’s experiences during the disaster-ridden filming of “Apocalypse Now,” Jonathan Reynolds’ “Geniuses” at Third Stage attempts a darkly comic take on eccentric, unstable artists caught in the moral quicksand of heartless Hollywood deal making.

The result? A disappointing rehash of belligerent power-tripping and brutal misogyny reminiscent of David Rabe’s “Hurlyburly” or David Mamet’s “Speed the Plow,” but without the focus or insight.

Finding themselves trapped in a Philippine village during a typhoon, the play’s ironically titled virtuosos--minor players in the fictional film’s cast and crew--settle in for a meandering bout of bickering that offers few compelling inducements into the theater.

Once you’re there, however, you can’t help appreciating David Rose’s handsome naturalistic staging (augmented with a lushly detailed set by Joseph B. Tinifass).

Though too long in the setup, the most affecting scene is a harrowing assault by the film’s abusive art director (Robert Budaska) on a centerfold bit player (Deirdre Imershein). Although ultimately according a measure of control and retribution to the girl, the play indulges in exactly the kind of exploitation it seems to be condemning by parading her around throughout in various states of undress--a cheap ploy for attention that sends an unpleasantly mixed message.

* “Geniuses,” Third Stage, 2811 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank. Fridays, Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m. Ends April 2. $12. (213) 466-1767. Running time: 2 hours, 50 minutes.