Joyous, rapid-fire Resurrection of the Movie Musical

Rating: Null/10 (27 May 2001)

Moulin Rouge works. Despite some flaws in pacing that may improve with
further viewing, Lurhman has succeeded in modernising and rewriting the
musical format. It is a movie that tries to be everything to everyone
but its enjoyably open and its poignancy and sweetness are backed up
with a knowing, sardonic humour release. Ewan and Nicole excel as the
lovers and the flirtation with screwball comedy as they seduce one
another is a giddy, gay old time. The music is a revelation, as pop
songs become standards to be treated with a certain reverence rarely
seen until now. Roxburgh's villain is comparable with Billy Zane's
"Titanic" villain in a performance either exaggerated and irritating or
deliciously over the top- still hard to decide. Its a film about love
indeed, a love of cinema too and innovation while renewing a classic
genre. I loved it and feel it will grow with me. A