Glitz and glitter, but just enough substance

Rating: 10/10 (13 August 2002)

Sure, "Moulin Rouge!" has been panned as a one-dimensional chick flick with lots of pretty colors and flashy dance numbers but no true depth. However, the brilliance of the movie lies in it's delivery. Essentially, most tragic love stories are the same. This movie elevates itself to greatness due to the masterful direction of Baz. The frantic pace only serves to dazzle us more; the blinding colors and chaotic musical numbers truly make this film a tour de force. The characters of Christian, Satine, Loutrec, Zidler, and the Duke are delivered splendidly by obviously talented actors. The difference between many love stories and "Moulin Rouge!" is that this film actually tries...everything jumps out at the viewer to deliver the Bohemian message of truth, beauty, freedom, and love in an eye-popping way. Many who see this movie will be left breathless; and muttering the timeless, honorable theme: "the greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love, and be loved in return." Now that is the mark of a great movie. 10/10