To critics who didn't like it: Don't quit your day jobs

Rating: 9/10 (15 July 2002)

I won't repeat what many have said here about the spectacular visuals, dancing and music. All I will say about that is that this is the best musical I can ever remember seeing! Whatever the critics may say to pick it apart, the sum of the parts is that this movie just plain works. Period. Never mind Nichole Kidman's well-deserved applause, just imagine Obie-Wan belting out a version of "Your Song" that rivals Elton John's, and you'll get an idea of the unique quality of this film.
It starts out a bit goofy and quickly turns chaotic, but then settles down to just good old fashioned music and dancing. And through all of the visual and auditory spectacle, you begin to see that there really is a touching, if corny, story underneath it all. The ending is truly tear-jerking.

I understand that some people didn't like this movie for the very reasons that make it great: it is bold and different. If your idea of a good musical is along the lines of cute story that is written primarily to show off some new show tunes, you'll probably hate it. But if have an open mind and understand that the main purpose of the cinema is to entertain us, then you'll have to agree: "Spectacular, Spectacular!"
Oh, one more thing: Given the subject matter, my kudos go to the director for keeping this film in good enough taste to keep it below an "R" rating. The film itself was not like the in-your-face rather slutty MTV video of "Lady Marmalade" that was used to promote it. Although it had its moments of implied sensuality, I was able to watch this movie with my teenage daughter with no reservations.
Bravo!