This really is The Greatest Show

Grayce Lillpop, Staff Writer

The Greatest Showman Movie Poster

WOW. Three letters that sum up my emotions and probably my facial expressions as well during the entire showing of The Greatest Showman. This movie has easily become my absolute favorite movie given that I’ve seen it five times in the theater and may or may not have plans to see it again. This movie was directed by Michael Gracey,  produced by Laurence Mark, Peter Chernin, and Jenno Topping with musical creations by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, and highlights the stunning performances of Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron and Zendaya.

This film has modern and contemporary musical numbers and choreography all the while taking place during the 1850’s and 60’s. This sensational blend of music intertwines the two time periods and cultures so beautifully. The musical stylings infuse very upbeat and modern tunes with some more emotional and somber ones as well but all are conducted and executed with a performance that remains unique. This film embodies what a true musical should look and feel like by grabbing the audience’s imagination and taking them on a whimsical ride they won’t ever forget, but will cherish. The authentic scenes portray the life of Phineas Taylor Barnum and show the audience how he built his career and his successful circus. Through the hardship and trials of building a name for himself, P.T Barnum is shown to be a strong and dedicated man who continues to celebrate humanity through his circus acts despite the long winding road it took to build his celebrity status.

I can hardly find the words to describe the overflowing amount of joy I feel when I watch this movie. The celebration of life and the overall sense of family floods over me and gives me an abundant amount of appreciation for the directors, actors, musicians and the entire cast and crew behind the creation of The Greatest Showman.

This movie is unlike all that are in theaters now and that’s why I feel so drawn to watch it again and again. It takes such a divided and difficult time during the 1850’s and 1860’s and celebrates humans of all backgrounds, shapes, sizes and colors, and it’s beautiful to watch and hear. I personally have been listening to the astonishing work of the soundtrack day in and day out, belting the lyrics for so long that my voice starts to slowly fade. IT’S SO GOOD!!

Whether you are a fan of musicals or are up for a new adventure, watch this film; you can thank me later. Just because I’ve seen it as many times as I have doesn’t mean I love it less each time or that I just want to see how many times I can see it in the theater before it’s gone. It’s a feeling unlike anything I’ve experienced from watching a film before, and I highly recommend seeing it. See the hard work put forth and the message which is clear when watching. Find a new and refreshing appreciation for humankind and all the imperfect people that are in the world.