MEOW!
Let's start at the beginning...a VERY good place to start...
When Maria (Mary Poppins/Julie Andrews--take your pick) sings about how "the hills are alive with the sound of music," it's unquestionably one of the most iconic moments in cinematic history. But the opening shots before that moment are amazing masterpieces in of itself. What I would give to view those shots on an IMAX screen, and sink in every detail of Ted D. McCord's extraordinary cinematography. From the very moment this film begins, a spell is cast on the viewer.
And it doesn't stop there. Lord, what amazing parts of Austria that I'm fortunate enough to observe (the shots inside the cathedral will blow your film-loving mind), what wonderful music by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II that I am fortunate enough to hear and sing along to ("when you know the notes to sing, you can sing most anything"), and what terrific performances from all of the cast that I am fortunate enough to see with my very eyes (Peggy Wood and her rendition of "Climb Ev'ry Mountain" is nothing short of miraculous). The Sound of Music is a film that I am fortunate to have heard, seen and observe. It was also a film that I was fortunate to have heard, seen and observe in the comfort of a movie theater in honor of its forty-fifth anniversary. One of the best movie-going experiences I've ever had.
The one downside? The. Bloody. Length. I can't sit through this film without having to nod off in a couple of moments. And believe me, there are a couple of moments that could have easily been trimmed to make it a satisfying two-and-a-half hour movie musical. I also can't remember "Something Good" like I can instantly remember something like "Edelweiss," "So Long, Farewell," "My Favorite Things," "The Sound of Music," and...and...and...well, every other musical number besides "Something Good." On the upside, there are goats in this film. I mean, they're made out of puppetry, but it'll do...
I digress. The Sound of Music is an ambitious enough movie musical to merit an incredibly strong recommendation. It's gorgeously shot, has terrific performances by everyone involved, and the sound of its own music is alive and well. It's also the only movie musical aimed at families where nazism is discussed. Isn't that a 'great escape' for all ages?
He...hehe....eh, tough crowd indeed.
Out of five yelling goats, I give The Sound of Music...
Until next time,
SOUTH PARK: BIGGER, LONGER & UNCUT...
I am so excited to review that film...
and MEOW, of course!
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