This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 75. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Hey folks!
So, grab your top hats and let me tell you about last night’s film “The Greatest Showman.” This flick, right, it’s like a sparkly, jazz-hand-packed tribute to the circus maestro P.T. Barnum, and believe me, it’s a fanciful twist on his life story.
Now, if you’re anything like me, you’re here for a film that doesn’t just trot out a history lesson, but instead delivers an upbeat, toe-tapping spectacle. And Michael Gracey? Our director dude? He doesn’t disappoint. He whirls us into this technicolor daydream of a movie that’s stitched together with show tunes that stick in your head for days. I mean, c’mon, we’ve all had “This Is Me” on loop at some point — don’t deny it!
I can’t talk about this movie without gushing over Hugh Jackman as the man himself, P.T. Barnum. Jackman is just…ugh, he’s a treat. The man sings, dances, and charms the pants off everyone. That grin, you guys, it’s like he’s got this secret and we’re all in on it. The chemistry with his on-screen wife, played by the amazing Michelle Williams, is as smooth as a buttered-up banister. She’s fabulous, by the way, giving us this delicate balance of grace and guts.
Then there’s Zac Efron. Oh, sweet Zac, all grown up from his “High School Musical” days and proving he’s got chops as Barnum’s business partner. His burgeoning romance with Zendaya’s character, a trapeze artist, has more ups and downs than a yo-yo in a windstorm, but their aerial duet? Pure magic. And Zendaya – heaven, that gal is gutsy. She swings through scenes with this fierce elegance that has you rooting for her from the get-go.
But let’s not forget the show-stealing performance by Keala Settle as the Bearded Lady. Her rendition of “This Is Me” gave me chills. It’s like she reached through the screen, grabbed my feelings, and said, “We’re going on an emotional journey, buckle up!”
Let’s dish about the plot, okay? So, Barnum’s this visionary who’s just bouncing with harebrained schemes to make a buck and give his family the life he thinks they deserve. He wrangles a motley crew of “unique” individuals into the world’s first circus. But it’s not your average circus; it’s like the Cirque du Soleil of the 1800s. He gathers a troupe of extraordinary individuals, each with their own unique talents and backstories. It’s like watching a human box of assorted chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get next. 🍫
The narrative takes us through Barnum’s journey of rags to riches, his obsession with success, and how it affects his family and the people he works with. There’s drama, there’s laughter, there’s a dash of romance and a dollop of social commentary. Like, we’re talking about real issues here, but with glitter.
I’ve gotta be real with you for a sec – the plot? Sometimes it jumps faster than a rabbit on a hot plate. But if you’re willing to roll with the punches (and the songs — did I mention the songs?!), it’s all part of the charm. Besides, when you’re like me and have a soft spot for a good musical number, you’re willing to forgive a lot.
Now, I could keep yammering on, but let’s face it, you’ve probably already seen “The Greatest Showman” because who hasn’t? It’s the kind of film that’s easy to come back to when you’re in the dumps and need a boost, or when you just want to see Hugh Jackman strut in a bright red coat. I mean, who needs another reason?
On the flip side, the film isn’t without its flaws. The portrayal of P.T. Barnum is, well, a bit sugar-coated. The real guy wasn’t exactly the saintly visionary the movie makes him out to be. But hey, I guess every musical needs its hero, even if they’re wearing slightly rose-tinted glasses. 🌹
In a nutshell, “The Greatest Showman” is a visual cotton candy that’s perfect for when real life just isn’t hitting the right notes. It’s full of heart, spectacle, and songs so catchy that you’ll be humming them for eternity. And honestly, in these crazy times, don’t we all just need a pick-me-up like that?
Peace out ✌️
Roger