The Greatest Showman (2017)

The Greatest Showman (2017)
by
Michael Gracey

Hugh JAckman is a good actor,when he acts. He is a bigger star,perhaps SRK of Hollywood ,and whenever he stars in a film,he and the film become intolerable.The definition of a star is his self-love.He must smile for himself,apply paint on his face ,must look beautiful in spite of the demand of the role and must transcend the need of the script and play himself.JAckman does all this here,and more.In the bargain ,the film loses its soul and becomes  a show of visual brilliance and songs.

This is a musical drama,and I dunt know why but taking the story forward while singing English lines seems very frivolous.In Indian films,we emote and celebrate through songs,dunt fast forward the story.The script itself is a tribute to P.T.Barnum’s showmanship,who gathered a motley crowd of freaks and differently abled performers  and started a “ primitive circus of humbug ‘’ in the words of an unrelenting critic.Barnum And Bailey generated much controversy and curiosity and is considered an epitome of remarkable showmanship.This has been duly documented in the movie.But the characters seem hollow and the treatment seems cursory.The whole act seems rushed ,and just a star vehicle for Jackman,Michelle Williams and Zack Effron.

Do  I consider the time spent a waste ? The film is actually tolerable,and even mildly entertaining.There is an air of positivity and feel good about it.Seen from the modern lens,the Barnum Circus and the movie can even be considered as celebration of humanity (and family).Hugh Jackman does not deliver trash,but unfortunately most of his films have no repeat viewing capability either.