The Greatest Showman

P.T. Barnum had a difficult life. From his father dying when he was young - leaving him orphaned - to falling in love with a woman whose father disapproved of their relationship, he's had to constantly fight for what he has and to make a name for himself, as well as provide for his family. He does well for awhile, until he's laid off and must look for some more work. During his search he has the bright idea to bring together some of the world's wonders and put on a show that would dazzle audiences around the world. His dream is not without some detractors, however. Many people see the acts in his show and label it a "freak show", calling for the show to be shut down. Despite that, he perseveres with his show and also develops a deep relationship with the members of his show, and gaining an understanding of people who aren't necessarily allowed into "popular" circles of modern society.

The Greatest Showman was a pleasant surprise, as I wasn't expecting it to be a musical. I guess I didn't pay too much attention to the trailers, so when the movie opened with the first song, I was confused at first but then once I settled in and watched the movie, I loved every minute of it. For the first time in a long time, I was able to sit back and just enjoy the story unfolding onscreen and the music without feeling like I had to purposefully look for things to critique. The music is enthrallingly catchy, each of the performances from the actors were wonderful, and I loved the vibrant and extravagant sets. Even though I already knew he could sing from his performance in Les Miserables, Hugh Jackman knocks it out of the park again with his portrayal of P.T. Barnum. It amazes me just how good of an artist he is.

Another thing I appreciated, especially as an individual with a disability, was the overarching message(s) of acceptance regardless of disability, social status, etc. The song This Is Me, though it wasn't my favorite song out of the entire movie, resonated with me deeply. I'm sure that was the intention, of course, but still it was great to see.

Even if you aren't a big fan of musicals in general, it's still completely worth it to check out The Greatest Showman. As mentioned above, it's the first movie in a long time that made me forget everything and just sit back and have fun. That's a feeling I hope keeps coming back in the future from here on out.