←Recommendations of Last to Die for a Lost Cause

A fierce commentary on the futility of war, “Last to Die for a Lost Cause” digs deeply into themes of guilt and shame, honor and dishonor, trust and betrayal, and innocence lost. There’s a palpable desperation present in each of the play’s characters that draws us in, and propels the action relentlessly toward Polak’s startling conclusion. High stakes, unexpected turns, and gripping revelations make for a briskly paced page-turner.

A powerful look at the decisions one must make in war and what our place in it all is. Well done.

Engaging characters and tight construction make this intimate drama impossible to put down. Each character is struggling with some aspect of desertion, and not always in the way I've understood that term. The relationships between Calvin and Tommy, and between Anna and Shada are particularly poignant, and the climax was heartbreaking. I can see this play working particularly well with a minimal set and a great sound designer. It's extremely powerful in its simplicity, dark humor, and stark themes.

"Last To Die for a Lost Cause" by Brian James Polak is a strong commentary on the human nature under high stake circumstances. Polak creates a scenario that is both extraordinary in nature and accessible in execution. His characters possess both pity and repulsion that drives this story to it's dramatic conclusion.