I would make a terrible movie reviewer; I have said this before, and I’ll continue to believe it. I have honest opinions about most movies that I choose to see in the theatre, however, I tend to migrate toward films I know I will likely enjoy before buying a ticket at the box office.
Nevertheless, there are movies I feel compelled to write about at times using these column inches to express my thoughts and feelings after the credits roll. I have a soft spot for musicals. I have enjoyed them since my childhood. I spent many hours in my college years watching the classic movie musicals from yesteryear that were much older than I was. The magic of the movie-musical transcended time, at least for me.
I had seen many previews for “The Greatest Showman.” Christmas release movies are difficult for me to see sometimes. The hustle and bustle of the year cuts into time that could be spent in front of the silver screen.
My fiancé, Tim, knew about my desire to see the film. How could he not? I told him enough times. I missed it when it was at the Capitol II. I should have made time, but life happens and not always perfectly.
As luck would have it, the Marshalltown theatre still had showings for “Showman.” Going to that theatre is always nostalgic for me. I think more than half of the movies I have seen in my life were from the seats at the Plaza 9.
Tim and I took some time on a Sunday afternoon and had a date “night” at the theatre. From start to finish, I was enthralled by the movie. The opening number caught my attention and it never lost it.
“Showman” tells the story of P.T. Barnum, founder of Barnum & Bailey Circus which ran from 1871 to 2017. Barnum is portrayed by Hugh Jackman as a dreamer and a natural showman. He brings the unique and unnatural together and puts it on display for others to see from General Tom Thumb to the Bearded Lady. It was a fascinating telling about how the 146 year old show got its beginnings.
The music, of course, is what captivated me the most. I purchased the soundtrack and have been listening to the music since I saw the movie. My favorite song is “This is Me” sang by Keela Settle (The Bearded Lady). It’s a powerful song sung by the circus performers. The message is about being who you are, no matter what that is, is one that anyone can live by at any age. Settle’s voice brought me to tears in the theatre and still does when I listen to the her anthem. It won the Golden Globe for Best Original Song. It’s also nominated for the Oscar as well. I hope it wins. It’s a beautiful song.
If you have the chance, check out this movie, especially for any musical lover out there. The acting and directing are superb throughout the entire film. If I had extra time, I would have gone to the next showing. The great movie musical is alive and well with a story like “The Greatest Showman.”
Contact Pam Rodgers
at prodgers@newtondailynews.com