“The Greatest Showman”, aka “The Greatest Show” … at least in this reviewer’s eyes for the last few
What a feast for all the senses, especially for a used-to-be musical theatre performer, albeit only on an amateur stage. Every minute of this movie takes your breath away with the exquisite choreography, the nailing of each song by voices that fill the theatre with glorious harmonies, a soundtrack that stirs your soul & a beat that has your toes tapping & hands beating a rhythm on your thigh as soon as the music rises for every number – oh, & clap softly after each one (only because I didn’t want to disturb anyone else!) The story-line itself is a touching tribute to one man, his vision & those who brought it into existence by daring to parade their differences in front of packed houses.
I, for one, wanted to get out of my seat with every single musical offering to dance in the aisle – whether it was for the soul stirring This is Me by just taking to the floor & dancing up a storm as my spirit cried out in unison with Keana Settle (The Bearded Lady) & her mates when they discovered a newfound sense of pride for who they were rather than mere outcasts of society.
Later in the poignant Never Enough, my whole body wanted to sway in rhythm while my heart broke into tiny pieces at the lyrics, as an expressive voice (albeit not that of Rebecca Ferguson who played Jenny Lind in the movie) had my soul soaring up with the eagles … & every beat was underpinned by a brilliant score - & don't get me started raving about a dress that made me wish I was young again! Every single number making up this stirring soundtrack was equally as good.
Hugh Jackman was his usual extraordinary showman self, playing the role of P.T. Barnham of this “Oddity Circus” fame, as well as bringing that poignant caring nature of his to the big screen. Michelle Williams, in the role of Charity, his wife, not only did a superb acting job, but her clear voice and excellent diction was a delightful surprise. Keana Settle touched your heart as she played The Bearded Lady with all of her sadness, until finding her true worth & inner self for the first time during what has been classed as the movie’s theme song. Zac Efron, Rebecca Ferguson & Kendaya were three other outstanding stars of this wonderful production, along with each & every other actor who embodied their characters with all of their heart & soul.
Congratulations to the entire creative team & cast, & to everyone else involved in bringing this movie to cinemas … & ultimately our living-rooms in years to come.
A friend & I went along to see this today. Oh my goodness, the movie may be called 'The Greatest Showman' but it was 'The Greatest Show' I've seen for a few years. A true masterpiece with so much passion in every movement. My first words when it was over were, "I want to come & see it again tomorrow!" If you can, try & get along to a cinema before it closes. It truly is an uplifting movie musical with a touching message behind all the glamour & glitz.
Definitely ten out of ten for this satisfied onlooker to all this goodness.
