There was never a time in my life where I doubted Nate Adams, author of “The Only Critic” film and television website and the upcoming recipient of the 2025 Recent Graduate Award from W]Siena Heights University.. The man has done nearly everything he has ever set out to do. Nate has fully Immersed himself into the world of cinema and has come up with accolades I could only dream of time and time again. His dedication to his craft of critique is astonishing and inspiring.
So, when Nate messaged me several months ago and tells me he’s writing a one act stageplay, better yet one about the perils of Hollywood actors and their agents, I was ecstatic. There was no doubt in m mind that Nate would do wonderful. Sure enough, he went in front of a packed crowd at Farver’s, The Croswell’s house bar and one of Nate and I”s favorite hangout spots, to make a statement.
“The Statement” is a two-person play following actor Elliot(Kyler Matoon) and their agent Hank(Matthew Porter) as they attempt to write a statement about Elliot’s recent breakup in order to quell backlash and bad PR. Being set in a Halloween party in Hollywood, the two reference, take shots at, as well as cross paths with the great icons of today, such as Leonardo DiCaprio. Beyoncé, Pete Davidson, and Ted Danson. Nate’s cinematic background is very much a part of the story, with references and cleverly vailed quips and jokes to cause any pop culture fan to chuckle. The witticisms between Elliot and Hank truly evoke a Neil Simon banter that is not only funny, but rich in heart.
Speaking of heart, the portrayal of Kyler and Matthew did have a lot of heart in both roles, with Kyler bringing the aloofness of an actor not really realizing the ramifications, and Matthew the manic energy of the person who has cleaned up mess after mess for a friend they love dearly but still gets on their nerves. With the stage actions being read by the impeccable Aaron Treadway, the trio of actors who are already instilled with a remarkable chemistry all their own truly is what pushes “The Statement” into the limelight. Matthew and Kyler, with a particular emphasis on Kyler, took the characters Nate crafted and put their souls into their portrayal. Despite simply being a reading, the packed bar truly felt like it was transported to Beverly Hills. I cannot praise Kyler, Matthew. and Aaron enough for taking what might initially seem like superficial celebrities and giving them the true charm and heart Nate intended for them to have.
Essentially, the play is about camaraderie, through the good times and especially the bad ones. Elliott and Hank represent the worst kinds of people, but also the best kind of friendships a person can have. We often have a genuine side only our true friends can ever truly see. In a world of social media, assumptions, and quick decisions, life can seem like all about making appearances. Having people who understand your genuine self, would be willing to risk it all for you, is a blessing beyond compare.
As I looked around at Farver’s, I saw myself around the friends who have done that for me, celebrating the accomplishment of the man I consider one of my best friends ever.
Bravo, Nate! You have inspired me and countless others more than you will ever know. You make a statement with every single thing you do. I am grateful, humbled, and proud to be a part of your journey.
Calm and Cultured 