A wonderfully stirring, funny, emotive and original film.

Rating: Null/10 (10 November 2001)

I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I went to the cinema to see "Moulin Rouge". I should have known that the superlative Baz Luhrmann would not disappoint his fans(I speak as an English teacher who has seen even the most resistant pupils warm to "Romeo & Juliet" through his film version.)
The golden age of musicals would seem to be long gone(apart from many wonderful Disney animations). Well this statement I am pleased to say is no longer true!
What an absolutely wonderful cinematic experience this film was. I viewed this film with my Mum (67 years old) and my ten year old son who's an ADHD sufferer and he could not take his eyes off the screen! Three different generations were thrilled by the songs, the colour and the fine acting of both the leading and supporting actors. There is a clear chemistry between Nicole Kidman and Ewan Mcgregor and you always sympathise with their characters and the trials and tribulations that they face in the story. Their wonderful singing voices and clever choice of songs (Elton John's "Your Song" takes on a whole new life)only add to the illusion that they are a couple deeply and genuinely in love. The course of true love never did run smooth and you can almost imagine the Duke twirling his moustache like the stereotypical baddie. However, this film never turns into parody.
There are many witty and humorous sections(watch out for Ewan and Nicole's first encounter where Ewan only wants to read poetry to the gorgeous Satine)and both stars display comic timing very different from many of the cinematic roles they are most famous for.
Ewan is an absolute babe and Nicole stunning in a variety of outfits which show off her endless legs (I am sooo jealous!!! Tom Cruise YOU MUST BE MAD!)
This film would stand with such fine classic musicals as "The King and I" and "South Pacific" and the addition of many contemporary songs pleased both an eighties chick and a current chart fan. The twists and turns of the plot and the visual feast for the viewer meant that this film was never predictable and with a story line (that could easily have turned into schmaltz) to tug at even the hardest heart, this is a must see for everyone.

An absolute triumph!! Forget the usual boring, predictable films turned out by Hollywood and go and see something which will restore your faith in the power and magic of cinema at its best.