The Second Coming of Klaus Kinski!

Reviewed by Julia Stier
WTFN
Through April 5

The real-life, controversial actor Klaus Kinski may have died in 1991, but now he’s back, and he’s got something to say.

In The Second Coming of Klaus Kinski!, actor and writer Andrew Perez resurrects Kinski and takes on his persona. With exuberant energy and informed precision, Perez — under the direction of Eric G. Johnson — gives audiences a peek into the mind of a man many have heard of, but few really know.

Klaus Kinski was a prolific film actor who appeared in over 130 films. His most notable roles were in Nosferatu the Vampyre (1979), Woyzeck (1979), and Aguirre, the Wrath of God (1972). He is known for having quite the tumultuous love life, a string of wives, and a terrible temper — all of which this production explores.

Perez is unpredictable as the explosive Kinski. One never knows when he is going to pop into the audience, or succumb to a fit of rage. The production is a marathon for any actor; it also brilliantly showcases Perez’s well-researched and skillful writing. He is fascinating to watch, and while the show’s non-linear nature can make it challenging to follow, his larger-than-life performance commands attention.

The play is a look into the frazzled brain of one very complicated man. While it’s an impressive examination, the production offers no clear takeaway, except perhaps for those curious to learn more about the unusual individual.

To make his transformation complete, Perez is crowned with Kinski’s recognizable shock of bright blonde hair (Anthony Markeith) and imbued with his distinctive accent (Adele Cabot). Clips from Kinski’s various films, interviews and appearances (edited together by Eric G. Johnson) greet the audience as they enter the theatre and provide some much needed context for those less familiar with Kinski than others.

The Pico Playhouse, 10508 W. Pico Blvd., Cheviot Hills; Fri., 8 p.m.; through Apr. 5. KlausKinskiLive.com. Running time: about 80 minutes with no intermission.