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I have not yet used this play on words in the current year, but I am happy that I saved it until the last possible moment – because Men Up is undoubtedly the highlight of this year’s Christmas festivities. The 90-minute story, set in Morriston Hospital in Swansea during 1994, follows the first trial of a drug that would later become known as Viagra. It is short, charming, and delightful all at once. While maintaining its humor, the story presents the subject matter seriously and avoids using it for comedic effect. Writer Matthew Barry and director Ashley Way have expertly crafted a tone that does not undercut or exaggerate any moment.

The plot revolves around a small group of men who, in the early 1990s, experiment with various treatments for their erectile dysfunction including penis injections, inflatable rods, a pump in the scrotum, and pellets inserted into the urethra. They eagerly jump at the opportunity to try a new potential cure in the form of a pill. Meurig (played by Iwan Rheon), who has been struggling due to his diabetes, is hopeful that the pill will help him, while his wife (played by Alexandra Roach) worries that it may be a reaction to her double mastectomy for breast cancer. Together with their fellow sufferers, they undergo “strain gauge” tests, take pills, watch pornography, and wait for results. Eventually, most of them experience success, but for some, the disappointment is overwhelming.

The text delves into a humorous and understanding exploration of the significance attributed to erections and sexual ability by men, society, and women (although the latter will be discussed later on). It also sheds light on the strict and absurd expectations of masculinity that we adhere to, the rigidity of these expectations, and the unnecessary suffering that results from not fitting in.

Even more impressively, Barry’s writing highlights the distinction between physical attraction and emotional connection. The resolution of erectile dysfunction only tackles one issue and often fails to address the root cause. Widower Colin (Steffan Rhodri), thanks to his medication, is able to go beyond phone sex with his new partner, but it is the love he shared with his late wife, despite his inability to “perform” for years, that gives him strength. This love also allows him to support a struggling man for whom the medication does not work. The rarely explored closeness of unashamed male friendship is perhaps the most poignant aspect of Men Up.

However, there are also instances of troubled marriages that have the potential to overcome their difficulties. There are also cases of regular individuals facing challenges without resorting to alcohol, aggression, or becoming monstrous. These individuals may also suffer deep wounds from thoughtless acts of cruelty, such as when Tommy (played by Paul Rhys), who is in a long-term relationship with another man, is forced to lie in order to participate in a trial that only allows heterosexuals. Not only are these limitations narrow, but they also only lead to heterosexual relationships. What a world.

All this and a great opening turn by Katy Wix as Meurig’s obtuse therapist. Men Up is a lovingly made thing, full of delicately poised performances that allow the whole to pivot from funny to sad and back again without the smallest wobble. What a lovely way to end the year.

Source: theguardian.com