by Emily Maybanks
Released on Boxing Day 2017, The Greatest Showman was a feel-good film to end the year with.
Directed by Michael Gracey, it is a stunning American period musical drama, and it stars Hugh Jackman (who appeared in Les Miserables – so at least we know he can sing!) as the leader character, P.T. Barnum. With other big stars like, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, and Rebecca Ferguson, the film is a spectacle to watch.
It is the story P.T. Barnum, who started the Barnum & Bailey Circus, and its fantastically, individualistic, spectacle. The Greatest Showman is a rollercoaster of emotions and, yet, it was impossible to leave the cinema without a smile. An inspiring tale, where Barnum invites unique people to join his circus. Sadly, people whose families were ashamed of them because of how they looked; this film celebrates that diversity, uniqueness and individuality. The story mainly follows Barnum, on his successes and failures as The Greatest Showman. His tale is a truly inspiring one.
Undeniably, as a musical, the songs play a key role in this film, and, trust me, they are outstanding. This Is Me is especially uplifting. It fits in so well with the film’s message about being, unapologetically, who you are. The lyrics I am who I’m meant to be, this is me also give a powerful sense of inner strength and determination. A highlight of the film is duet with Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron. They put on an amazing performance, and the song itself is uplifting. It is all about how you should do what you love in life. Another interesting character in the film is, Anne Wheeler. She is an acrobat and trapeze artist who performs with Zac Efron about their forbidden love. This film is filled with friends, romance, stunning spectacles and an inspiring story. I highly recommend that you put it on the list of films you want to see this year!
