Whirly gig on overdrive

Rating: 8/10 (14 April 2002)

I had to watch this film twice before I could get my baring and decide. Watching Moulin Rouge! For the first time was like getting hit by a Mac truck then taking a roller coaster ride afterwards. This film is unique and like no other I have ever seen before (gilbert and Sullivan come close in the PP). There is so much eye/ear candy in this movie that I did not have time to absorb or enjoy it all. The last time I saw this much energy in a music/movie was "Stop Making Sense" (1984) you stare in disbelief at the wattage expended. The second time I watched Moulin Rouge! I enjoyed it. I have mixed feelings about most of the dialogue coming from other song lyrics. I watch older films and listen to older music and enjoyed picking out several lines from these films and songs. Since many young movie goers may not realize this, it will pass over their heads unnoticed. Such reuse is not a new concept and is enjoyable if done well, camp if forced. When the reuse was well-integrated, it was magical but there is a couple of gear grinding moments ("Like a Virgin" needs work). Over all, 96% of the music was well integrated and awesome. The cinematography, costumes and choreography make this a visually stunning event. With uncommon movies like Moulin Rouge! that can't be easily categorized, people will either love or hate this movie. I fall into the love faction. The plot is simple and fanciful but who quotes "War and Peace" on a roller coaster? In defense the plot does have an ending not typical of the sappy "happy ending" one expects.