A true Barnum spectacle for family viewing

Rating: 8/10 (20 April 2018)

Now when we go for movies our first expectation is to get entertained. We want to step out of reality, get our senses taken over and experience something grand. We want to believe that life can be much more than what we expect it to be. The Greatest Showman struck me exactly as that kind of movie made with keeping that same intention in mind. It is truly a spectacle for family viewing. Based on the life of PT Barnum, the showman who created the famous Barnum & Bailey circus, Hugh Jackman fits well in the shoes of Barnum and plays it with charm, rigor and childlike innocence. Treated with an exceptional cast and inspiring music, The Greatest Showman never fails to entertain. Its fast paced narrative combined with catchy song and dance sequences blend well with the story at all times.
The music is one of the biggest strengths of the movie and will resonate well with the audience for a long time to come. The Song 'A million dreams' can re-spark the buried dreams of a common man. The Oscar nominated 'This is Me' forces you to celebrate your uniqueness no matter what. The Greatest Showman not only brings a glamorous spectacle but leaves us with a sense of hope too. Michelle Williams also stands tall in her role as Barnum's wife. Her character is like a shadow to Barnum's but not the one you can miss. She brings lightness and strength to the movie when Barnum falters. She reminds you of someone who could teach you the pleasures and joys of simple things in life. Williams being an extremely beautiful woman herself, carries the role with grace.
The ensemble that creates the team of the circus deserves a mention too. You have a palette of characters that put so much of body to the movie that TGS otherwise would have been lacking. One of them is Zac Efron's character whose love story infuses a refreshing youthful energy to the movie. His lady love, played by Zendaya, is a contemporary woman marked down by the differences of class and race. Similarly the strength of the bearded woman with a voice of nightingale reminds you that you can be so much only if you learn to dim the unnecessary noise.
TGS reflects on a lot of aspects of life but with a fairy tale approach, which in my view is completely fine. Every kind of cinema is important, it might not be the best of film-making in critics' view but it certainly is very striking and works a hundred percent. It is perfect for a light viewing for a family of all sizes and age. Towards the end, you will find your eyes brightened after seeing the beautiful cinematography and your heart gladdened by its dance and music. This is a well-directed piece of work which should not be deprived of an audience driven by a critical approach of the few.
My recommendation - visit the circus and get entertained in the old world style!
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