Movie Review: The Greatest Showman

For anyone who hasn't seen The Greatest Showman- you need to. You just need to.

Although my opinions on this film are probably heavily biased (I do adore Hugh Jackman), the film is incredible and I'd go as far as to say that it's one of my all time favourites. It's definitely my favourite musical at least. That being said, this review might contain some spoilers, you've been warned.

The story of The Greatest Showman loosely follows the true story of the life of a man who came from nothing- Phineas Taylor Barnum (P.T for short). As a child, he worked for his father who was a tailor, ending up homeless as a teenager and living on the streets of New York. Shortly into the film, we see him becoming more successful and eventually opening his own building full of 'oddities' which was full of wax figurines, ranging from elephants to people of history. When this venture was not succeeding, P.T branched out and sought out strange and extraordinary people to create a show that the masses would love.

Among these people include a bearded lady, a giant, a 'dog boy', a tattooed man and many more. These people were viewed as unusual at the time and brought audiences into the circus building. The story follows these extraordinary characters becoming loved by members of the public, but also shows the opposite side of the coin where people jeer and bully. Much like in real life where you can't make everyone love you.

Inclusivity is a huge passion of mine, and to see these characters being included and loved by audiences is something I'd like to see more of in main stream media. The music, the costumes and the storyline makes you feel good when watching this film, which is ultimately the feeling I want to give my audiences with my character designs.

Although the majority of the film is all fun and happiness, there is a point where things start to go sour. When Barnum embarks on a tour with renowned Swedish singer Jenny Lind, he almost forgets about the circus and his family on the route to success. Ultimately wanting to prove himself as being worthy enough for everyone's love and attention, which he was neglected of as a young child, he almost loses everything in his life he has worked so hard to gain. Towards the end of the film, we see Barnum regaining his trust and friendships with his acts and partner (played by Zac Efron), which again leads to them becoming successful once again.

The important things that I took from this film include;

- You do not need to be loved by everyone. The people who care about you and love you are the only ones who matter.

- Your background does not define you. You can be successful if you try.

- Just because you're not what society calls 'normal', doesn't mean you can't be loved.

- Hugh Jackman looks really good in a Ringmaster's outfit.