"The Greatest Showman" Film Review

It's not often that I'm left speechless by a film. I've been pondering all day just how exactly I'm going to review The Greatest Showman. It literally took my breath away and left me wanting more. Just one more song, just one more dance number, just one more scene. When something makes you think that, that's how you know you just saw something brilliant. If I could sum up the film in one word, I'd have to use 'magical'.

The film follows Phineas Taylor "P.T." Barnum as he struggles to find his place in life. He gets the idea to start something new and, frankly, strange which leads to him becoming one of the greatest showmen in history.

I am reminded why I hate reading snobby critics' reviews. People have been saying this film is "smoke and mirrors" and "neglects....character and story". Sorry, snobs, but I didn't share that opinion. When a film causes you to gain interest and actually look up the person shown on screen so you can find out what happened next in his life, I'd say the film did its job. To capture someone's attention and intrigue them to the point of causing them to look further into the subject is not an easy feat. This was director Michael Gracey's first project and I applaud him. Gracey, along with writers Jenny Bicks and Bill Condon, brought a delightful and enchanting story to the screen which captured hearts and expanded imaginations. If anything, I'd say this film will inspire many to chase their dreams and take the risks no one else will to achieve greatness.

The music and choreography were the best parts of the film. Every number was spectacular. I honestly couldn't pick out just one as my favorite. The costumes and set design lit up the screen and just magnified each character's personality. The acting was stellar from top to bottom, Hugh Jackman and Keala Settle being the two standout performers. Zendaya and Zac Efron also surprised with their incredible voices and acting range. If you didn't love any of these actors before, you certainly will after this.

In conclusion, I can't praise this beautiful film enough. I just wish it could have lasted longer. I wanted to see more, experience more, and feel more. Not that it didn't deliver on all those because it most certainly did. I just didn't want it to come to an end. I give the film a 4 out of 4.