The Greatest Showman refers to P.T. Barnum,
but it could also refer to Hugh Jackman, who portrays him in this musical. What
can’t Hugh do? He sings, dances, and charms on screen. This is an excellent
movie for his talents, and a fun two hours to watch. Born incredibly poor
and unloved, P.T. Barnum vows he’ll be a success someday. His father is a
tailor and does work at a fancy estate. That’s where PT falls in love and vows
to marry the daughter. He’ll show the father that he can provide. She (Michelle
Williams) falls in love with P.T. for his energy, enthusiasm, and his dream.
She slogs through as he loses job after job. The family is happy.
Then he buys a museum of oddities. He sees potential. It’s
the early 1800s and folks do seek entertainment. The museum builds, of course,
into a circus and it’s fun to see the permutations arise. P.T. Barnum likes to
make a buck, is willing to take chances, and he respects but will use society
outcasts – tiny Tom Thumb, a giant, bearded lady, dog boy, and more. Ultimately
he seeks some acknowledgment, for the sake of his daughters. By wrangling a
rich dandy (Zac Efron) into joining the business, Barnum hopes for legitimacy.
He also branches out with Jenny Lind (Rebecca Ferguson) – vowing to make her
famous in America. But she has eyes for him, wants to compromise him, and again
he steps too close to fire.
The Greatest Showman is a spectacular film –
colorful, full of pleasant tunes, an American rags to riches tale with a
sideshow of memorable characters. And Zendaya flies overhead on her trapeze.
Step right up folks and buy your ticket. Let Hugh entertain you in his top hat
and red coat. Fill up on the cotton candy dream.
P.S. Barnum & Bailey Circus closed for good in
2017. Just see the story on the big screen
