The Most Beautiful Movie Ever Made

Rating: 10/10 (1 October 2002)

This is the first movie I ever saw in the theatre, the year was 1967.
Upon reviewing it the first time it was shown on TV, I have to say this is a movie that must be viewed on the big screen, for TV greatly diminishes the effect.
I remember it from a child's point of view, but this is largely a film about children for children by the child-at-heart. The plot is religious, the songs uplifting to heaven, the scenery heaven on earth. Robert Wise, the screenwriters, Rogers and Hammerstein, all the performers  all geniuses.
Then  political reality. The pristine Salzburg is besieged by the most compelling evil humanity has ever spawned.
The obvious critiques of "The Sound of Music" are its unwavering sentiment, and many viewers are repelled by its depiction of wealth, happiness and saccharin love. Any hardened adult should recall the basic message of this movie: You Find the Beauty in Life and Yourself and Those Around You.
Cheers: It's a Musical. Some of the greatest songs ever committed to the stage. Wonderful ensemble cast. Exquisitely set and filmed. The best family movie ever made. The finest movie ever filmed.
Caveats: Long. Religious. Sentimental, to the point of repulsion in a few of us ( not me ).
Rating: A Solid, Well Deserved Ten Stars.