Despite the play’s contemporary hooks—the country is at war in Iraq but not Iran, though it’s unclear whether this prez can tell the difference—Mamet has denied that the character is based on Bush. And “November” isn’t razor-sharp satire (like his “Wag the Dog”); it’s comedy so broad, it borders on shtik. “Chuckie,” as his aide calls him, tries to shake down the head of the National Association of Turkey Manufacturers and battles his gay Jewish speechwriter (Laurie Metcalf). The cast is hilarious, the play frothy. You want serious theater? Tune into C-Span.
