3.5 out of 5 stars

With “The Saviors,” Bubba Weiler further establishes himself as one of America’s top young playwrights. The drama tackles some meaty subjects — faith, friendship and, yes, saving/helping others — as it focuses on two boys growing up within the Catholic church. It’s not a truly great play — at least not yet — in that Weiler seems tempted to play things too much for laughs (Jack Serio’s direction arguably confuses matters even more). But there’s plenty to admire in the writing, particularly by the end. Plus, this premier production features spot-on performances by Ivan Howe and Julius Rinzel as the boys. — Charles Passy (Photo on home page by Ahron R. Foster)

At the Atlantic Theater Company’s Linda Gross Theater, through Aug. 15, 2026; atlantictheater.org. (Review date: Jul7 27, 2026)