The Guardian’s review judges Hit Machine, a new drama at Soho theatre, as polished and promising in concept but ultimately unconvincing in execution. Written by Jonathan Caren, directed by Daniel Bailey and starring Josh Radnor and Noah Galvin in their London stage debuts, the play explores masculinity, creativity, cultural appropriation and family trauma through the relationship between two brothers in the music business. The reviewer argues that, although the premise and creative team suggest a strong production, the script resolves heavy themes too neatly and fails to earn its emotional turns.

The play centres on music executive Wes, whose ordered life is disrupted by the arrival of his troubled younger brother Alex, revealing long-standing tensions from their childhood. The review praises the early scenes, the domestic setting and Bailey’s grounded direction, but says the brothers’ abrupt mood changes feel forced rather than psychologically complex. Khalil Madovi’s smaller role as rapper Defy the Leader is seen as adding interest, though his discussion of pressures on Black men is also said to be underdeveloped. The critic further notes that, despite being about music, the production contains surprisingly little full performance, with only one complete song, and runs at Soho theatre in London until 15 August.