LOUISA: 
MATT: 
LOUISA SAYS:
The true life story of the visionary P.T. Barnum and the birth of show business is celebrated in the cheery, sanitized fiction of “The Greatest Showman,” a crowd pleasing spectacle of a musical from director Michael Gracey. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) rose from nothing to create the worldwide sensation of the freak show and circus, and this film makes a great musical but just a so/so biopic.
Forget the idea that you’ll get an in-depth history of the intriguing Barnum and his wife Charity (Michelle Williams), and you’re certainly not going to see any of the darker side of this legendary man. To ensure the film is palatable to today’s modern audiences and their changing attitudes towards inclusiveness, Barnum’s notorious poor treatment of his band of “freaks” and his general exploitation of his performers is completely ignored. The film instead takes the position of creating a rousing, inspiring ode to celebrating individuality and uniqueness. This is nothing more than a charming, lively, and energetic musical with endlessly catchy, toe-tapping original songs — and that’s all it needs to be.
The film is flashy in all the right ways, its dreamy and dazzling costumes punctuated with spirited and elaborate staging and set pieces. Most of the talented cast, including Zac Efron, Zendaya, Keala Settle, and Rebecca Ferguson, have a musical or stage theater pedigree so the singing and dancing are equally proficient. The choreography is beautiful in terms of both physical dancing and sweeping camera work (including a stunning, applause-worthy opening musical number and a knockout, gorgeously fluid scene on a trapeze).
At the heart of the story is a poignant and powerful message of chasing your dreams and overcoming adversity, a fiery call to strike up the band and join in the march to the beat of your own drummer. It’s a message we’ve been spoon fed for years, yet it feels genuine and authentic here.
The original songs are gorgeous and deeply affecting, the soundtrack an instant classic. I was so emotional after the show stopping “This Is Me” number that I broke into spontaneous applause right there in the theater.
What a pity that in the film’s final moments there’s a dazzling Big Top display with CGI elephants and lions and horses that reminds audiences of the legacy of abuse at the hands of P.T. Barnum’s circus. It casts a dark cloud over the rest of this thoroughly enjoyable movie.
MATT SAYS:
“The Greatest Showman” deserves to be an instant classic, even if it doesn’t become one. It boasts some of the best original music of any movie musical in recent memory, and features some numbers to go with them that are simply show-stopping. It is anti-bullying, pro-celebrating our differences and has an inspiring message about the power of imagination. It is both inspiring and affirming; it’s just the sort of movie we need right now.
Screen Zealots 
I finally got to see it at the weekend – highly enjoyable. Will definitely see it again.
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Your glasses and ears must of been out of commission because all this movie tried to do was get on the radio. Disappointing.
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I loved it so much that I saw it 8 times in the theater. I found it magical. Sorry it didn’t work for you, but we appreciate your comment.
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“The Greatest Showman” isn’t just a musical; it’s a mesmerizing journey that transcends the screen to become a celebration of life, passion, and dreams realized. From the moment Hugh Jackman’s P.T. Barnum takes center stage with “The Greatest Show,” I was hooked—transported into a world where every song, every dance move, and every emotion felt like a burst of pure joy and inspiration.
What sets this musical apart is its ability to blend heart-pounding music with poignant storytelling. Each song is not just a melody but a powerful anthem that resonates long after the credits roll. Whether it’s the infectious energy of “This Is Me” or the soul-stirring balladry of “Never Enough,” every note strikes a chord, stirring emotions and igniting a sense of wonder.
And let’s talk about the performances. Hugh Jackman’s charisma as P.T. Barnum is electrifying, bringing depth and humanity to a character driven by ambition and a hunger for acceptance. The chemistry between Zac Efron and Zendaya adds a tender romance that enriches the narrative, while Michelle Williams’ portrayal of Charity Barnum infuses the story with grace and resilience.
Visually, “The Greatest Showman” dazzles with its vibrant choreography and lavish production design. Each scene is a feast for the eyes, from the colorful circus acts to the grandeur of the performances. Director Michael Gracey’s vision combined with the meticulous attention to detail creates a cinematic experience that feels larger than life, yet intimately personal.
But perhaps what resonates most deeply is the film’s message of embracing individuality and pursuing one’s dreams unapologetically. It celebrates diversity, resilience, and the power of belief in oneself—a message that feels especially relevant in today’s world.
In conclusion, “The Greatest Showman” isn’t just one of the best musicals; it’s a masterpiece that captivates, inspires, and leaves an indelible mark on anyone who experiences it. Its infectious spirit, breathtaking performances, and unforgettable soundtrack make it a timeless classic—a celebration of the extraordinary in all of us.
So, if you haven’t experienced the magic of “The Greatest Showman” yet, do yourself a favor and step into the spotlight. You won’t just watch a musical; you’ll embark on a journey of passion, courage, and the triumph of the human spirit that will stay with you long after the final curtain falls. So what is wrong with MAC’s brain? EVERYTHING.
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