An unexpected delight of music, empowering messages, entertaining choreography and an overall feel good movie for all ages. The movie tells the story of P.T. Barnum, played by Hugh Jackman, who went from nothing to a worldwide success and sensation. The film is part romance, part drama and part musical. When I asked my 10 year old daughter what she liked most about the movie she said, “I liked how they (P.T. Barnum and his circus performers) did things they had never done before as they performed.” I was surprised by the number of people in the audience who told me this was their second (and for one family of four, their third) time to see the movie. Their reasons for seeing it over and over again are the messages of family, love, and acceptance. And of course, the music and dancing.
Love over money, family over fame, kept promises, perseverance and ingenuity sum up the messages. It was clear to me from the outset that Barnum’s desire to prove that he could give his wife what he promised her when he married her away from wealth, even though he was a poor tailor’s son, was unshakable. He had a “whatever it takes” attitude. His wife, played by Michelle Williams, was satisfied with the simple things and love. His love for her and their girls stood the test of temptation when the show hit the road (although my daughter questioned that for a moment). In the end, love wins, teamwork wins, loyalty wins, family wins, and a way is made.
The movie is a celebration of humanity, putting together people of all colors, backgrounds, and differences. “The noblest art is that of making others happy.” -P.T. Barnum
Movie times: click here
Genre: Drama/Romance Musical
Director: Michael Gracey
Actors: Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya
Running Time: 1 hours 46 minutes
Rating: PG rated
