One of the most robust kinds of movies to review are the ones that you know aren't really all that they appeared to be. On the one hand, The Greatest Showman is a fun, upbeat, and exciting time at the movies. But on the flip side, it is also, intentionally or not, a kind of propaganda piece. Where it takes a historical figure, who was more than likely not that much of a nice person, and turns said historical figure into a defender of the marginalized and seeker of social justice. Even so, as I have stated before, I find that it is vital to judge movies strictly on their own merits, regardless of historical accuracy, or faithfulness and understanding of source material. In other words, let's cast aside history for a moment so I can determine if this movie was actually any good.
Spoiler: It kind of is.
What we have here is a dramatized musical account of the life of P.T. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) who was one of the founders of the Baily Barnum Circus. We see his early life as a tailors son who falls in love, starts a family, and aspires to provide them the best life possible. After a series of failed ventures, he stumbles upon an idea. To bring together a group of unique people for a show the likes of which has never been seen before. Despite protesters on the street, and societies open shame of the "freaks" that live among them, the show must go on. As they all band together as a family and show the world who they are and that they are not afraid.
Apparently, this has been a long-term passion project for Jackman. In addition to being a movie star, he is also fond of the stage. Having performed on and off Broadway in some well-received musical shows. Let's not forget that this is the same man who killed as a host for the Oscars back in 2009 with his incredible showmanship. Make no mistake: This is Jackman's show.
The music is actually pretty cool. Featuring songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the music feels like a combination of modern pop with classic Broadway. Jackman performs his songs with unbelievable energy and plays off his fellow cast very well. Special mention must be made to Keala Settle as The Bearded Lady. As she gets what is arguably the best song of the show, "This is Me," and has an excellent voice to boot. Though, speaking personally, I think my favorite song is "Come Alive."
The choreography is powerful, energetic, and catches the eye rather efficiently. That, along with the excellent blocking of both the cast and the camera, makes for a fantastic flow. The way the editing and camera movement seamlessly transitions between moments are beautiful. It's like the film is just gliding.
Now, as well done as all these elements are, the film just isn't really as impactful as it apparently wants to be. The movies biggest flaw is that it spends too much time trying to blow you away with each and every musical number, that there isn't really enough texture to the characters. I mean, Barnum does learn a lesson in the story, and the misfits get to have the best arc, but there's not enough meat on the bones for any of it to leave a lasting impression. As such, the movie is really just all flare and little story.
Maybe if they extended the runtime and allowed the characters and story to develop more, let the audience more time to identify with everyone a little more, perhaps this could have been an absolute knock out of a musical film. As it stands, it's an enjoyable show that cements Hugh Jackman's many talents and celebrates the diversity of the world, but it doesn't have enough texture to leave a lasting impression, other than the songs were catchy.
Is this movie worth seeing?
Maybe.
Is it worth seeing in theaters?
Maybe.
Why?
While it may not have much regarding narrative, it does have a lot of heart and energy to make seeing it in theaters a little worth your while. See it in theaters or just buy the soundtrack. Whichever you prefer.
Ladies and gentlemen, I am TheNorm, thank you for reading.
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