Note-perfect Hayes is high point of Good Night, Oscar

The Tony-winning Sean Hayes exudes awkward brilliance as troubled American pianist Oscar Levant, says Alice Saville, but this beguiling comedy-drama ultimately lacks depth

- Alice Saville

Hot on the heels of hit Broadway play Stereophonic, there’s another evocative recording studio period piece in town. But where Stereophonic is an epic, following a Seventies-era band gradually spiralling as they spend months cutting a record, Good Night, Oscar is a miniature that's set on an explosive single night. In a tight 100 minutes, it follows troubled Hollywood character actor, pianist, and comedian Oscar Levant on his last ever TV appearance. In a Tony Award-winning performance, its star Sean Hayes (Will & Grace) drenches this role in pathos and awkward brilliance, his sharp edges and jagged nerves rubbing uncomfortably against the smooth patter of a 1958 episode of Tonight Starring Jack Paar.