The Two Mrs. Cranes Analysis

According to a Russian Proverb, “With lies, you may get ahead in the world – but you can never go back” (Quotegarden). The consequence of such deception is suggested in Joe Keenan’s “The Two Mrs. Cranes” where live-in physical therapist Daphne creates a fictitious relationship with Niles in order to avoid reconciling with her ex, Clive, due to his presumed lack of ambition, which she later regrets. To that effect, the script suggests that unless people are shrewdly dishonest, they may behave in a foolish manner in order to rectify their mistakes or maintain their guise. The script demonstrates the results of such behaviour through Daphne’s sham of a relationship with Niles, Martin’s effortless take at deceiving Clive and Niles awkward attempts …show more content…
In fact, Martin’s proficiency is illustrated when he walks into the living room to surprisingly be referred to by Daphne as her father-in-law. As Clive exits, Niles urges Martin to leave as the situation at hand “requires quick thinking and improvisational skills”, which Martin refuses to do citing his background as a police officer, comfortably posing as a retired astronaut when Clive returns. Martin’s impressive ability to deceive others is illustrated here as he essentially creates a new identity in the space of a few seconds. In fact, as Martin speaks to Clive in the living room following his abrupt introduction, he easily manages to create an elaborate backstory about his space missions with Buzz Aldrin and even claims that he gave him the nickname Buzz because “he was scared of bees”. Martin’s skill is further demonstrated as he continues to improvise and create stories without any hesitation or hints of slowing down. He does so without drawing any negative or unnecessary attention to himself presenting himself to Clive as a hero. Furthermore, as Niles and Clive discuss Daphne’s current status, Martin interjects reminiscing about “the first time I ever drove a moon crane” adding that he “nearly rolled into the Sea of Tranquility”. Martin impressively references a moon crane and speaks of the Sea of Tranquility, an …show more content…
In particular, as Daphne begins to compliment Clive’s six-pack and questions his workout regimen, Niles cuts in to say that he and Daphne have their own workout regimen and adds that “we work out a quite a sweat, don’t we darling?” Niles is willing to bring up inappropriate topics such as his non-existent sex life with Daphne in order to put a stop to Daphne’s persistent flirting. Additionally, When Daphne makes a comment about Roz being barren, Niles quickly rushes to Roz’s defense highlighting that “it’s not her fault… my brother is impotent.” Niles behaviour is becoming more and more ridiculous as he works hard to maintain his façade. He defends Roz in hopes that she wins Clive over (neglecting the fact that she is married to Frasier) so he can maintain his status-quo with Daphne. In fact, as the arguments between Roz and Daphne escalate to new heights and as the entire nights lie is on the brink of coming out, Niles attempts to settle the dispute by suggesting he flip a coin (which he does in favour of Roz). In a final desperate attempt to keep the lie alive, Niles once again attempts to get in between Roz and Daphne with sole intention of In fact, as Roz and Daphne argue over who should have Clive, Niles attempts to salvage the nights lie by flipping a coin (in favour of Roz) to decide on who should have Clive. To