Opened: May 8, 2018

Directed by: Ben A. Williams

Starring: Russell Tovey, Arinze Kene, Lisa McGrillis, Nico Mirallegro & Rory J. Saper

Very much set in its play origins, The Pass is an interesting character study that happens over a decade in three acts.

British football players Jason (Russell Tovey) and Ade (Arinze Kene) are in a hotel room together the night before a big game when they have a life-changing romantic interaction. Years later, they meet again, and their lives are both strongly affected by their previous exchange.

Tovey gives a tormented performance as he struggles with fame and sexuality. Watching him feeling stuck with the expectations of a previous time period, while his friend lives a modern life is both heart-wrenching and disgusting.

There’s strong character development in John Donnelly’s writing. Having both Jason and Ade succeed and fail in two very different ways lets the audience see that singular success doesn’t mean everything.

Final say: Don’t pass this over. ★★★★☆