I just loved watching Hugh Jackman sing and dance

Rating: 9/10 (8 October 2018)

I thought this was an incredible movie, so I was also curious about the overload of criticism. I understand viewers having frustrations about the "historical accuracy" of the movie. I knew nothing about PT Barnum's life when I saw this, so I was able to enjoy it as an independent creative piece--which, to me, is what it was meant to be.
In it of itself, the movie was altogether captivating from the filming aesthetic, to the music, to the creative dialogue, to the storyline. I finished the film feeling inspired and motivated. It hit the nail on the head, for me, to motivate adults and children's' imagination--reminding humanity of what's most important: love, hope, family, friends, spreading joy, fighting for what you believe in amidst criticism, etc. It shines a light on flawed societal standards of happiness (the American dream) by using unexpected people, methods, and situations to open others' minds, and break them away from fixed, mainstream thinking patterns of materialistic success. Its message sparks excitement and enthusiasm, especially towards those of us who feel inadequate, or "in the shadows". It's a motivating and inspiring breath of fresh air.
I would hope that all movie makers' of this genre have the goal is to create a story/artwork that invigorates a similar kind of audience response to the one that I had to The Greatest Showman. If I were looking for a biographical movie, expecting a completely accurate historical recounting, I'd go see a documentary.