I am a huge fan of musicals! Yes, It’s true! Despite my self conscious, got-to-be-cool, college student attitude, the musical is one of my favorite movie styles and I am not afraid (well maybe just a little) to shout it out. I recognize that not everyone is as much of a musical junkie as I am, so let me explain my position:
Imagine a place where you can burst into song and/or dance to your heart’s desire whenever the mood strikes you. In the world of The Sound of Music, Oklahoma, and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers you can do just that! I dream of living life as a musical! Wouldn’t it be amazing to be sweeping your kitchen floor while singing My Own Little Corner with a full orchestra behind you?
Historically, people have been bursting into song for a very long time. The ancient Greeks added song to their comic and tragic performances, and in the middle ages traveling minstrels entertained the nobles with music and comedy.
Another great thing about musicals is that the majority of them are positive and family friendly, which sets them apart from most other current entertainment forms. Although scripts for musicals don’t typically emphasize realism or character development, not all musicals are light and fluffy. West Side Story, Fiddler on the Roof, and Carousal are all examples of musicals with important lessons to teach.
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers were pioneers of musical comedy films. They acted together in many award winning movies during the 1930’s and 1940’s. If you are interested in amazing songs, top rate dancing, and endearing story lines, watch these films! My favorites are Swing Time (it showcased the great song The Way You Look Tonight) and Top Hat.
I know that musicals aren’t for everyone, but if you haven’t watched one in a while, give musicals another try. There is hardly anything as timeless and dreamlike as Judy Garland singing, Somewhere Over the Rainbow in the opening scene of The Wizard of Oz.
“If pretty little bluebirds fly beyond the rainbow, why oh why can’t I?” – now that timeless…
-Marie
