The Greatest Showman (2017)
P.T. Barnum, a visionary, rises from poverty to create a dazzling showcase of unique and marginalized performers in 19th-century New York. Driven by ambition to provide a grand life for his family, he launches the “Greatest Show on Earth.” As his popular spectacle faces high-brow critics and scorn, Barnum grapples with the true meaning of acceptance, identity, and the pursuit of dreams.
Length: 1h45m
Genre: Biography, Drama, Musical
This Title is: Spectacle, Ambition, and Acceptance
Cast
Hugh Jackman, Zac Efron, Michelle Williams, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya, Keala Settle
Parental Guidance
Maturity Rating: PG – for thematic elements including a brawl.
FAQ
- Is The Greatest Showman (2017) Based on a True Story?: Yes, it is loosely inspired by the life of showman P.T. Barnum, but the production is a highly fictionalized, original musical.
- Where was The Greatest Showman (2017) filmed?: Primarily in New York City and various locations across New York State, including the historic Steiner Studios in Brooklyn.
- Who Wrote the Soundtrack?: The original songs were written by the Academy Award-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul.
Filmmaker Profile
Michael Gracey made his feature directorial debut, showcasing a kinetic visual style influenced by his commercial background. He emphasized bold choreography and a vibrant color palette, successfully blending contemporary pop music with a 19th-century setting, making the stage musical feel expansive and energetically alive.
Why It’s Worth Watching
The production is a breathtaking showcase of musical artistry, featuring undeniably catchy, powerful songs from Pasek and Paul. Its vibrant costume design and highly stylized visuals create a world of pure escapism and joy. The movie’s genuine message about self-acceptance and celebrating difference rings loud, offering a spectacular experience that uplifts the spirit.
Main Character Deep Dive
Hugh Jackman’s embodiment of P.T. Barnum is phenomenal, capturing the character’s relentless ambition and underlying vulnerability. We see his inner conflict as he tries to climb the social ladder, nearly sacrificing his authentic self and family connections for external approval. Jackman anchors the entire spectacle with magnetic showmanship and an emotional depth that makes his quest for validation profoundly relatable.
Unforgettable Quote
“No one ever made a difference by being like everyone else.”
Trivia
- The production took seven years from its original pitch to Hugh Jackman to finally be greenlit and released.
- The song “This Is Me” achieved massive success worldwide, becoming an anthem for self-acceptance and reaching the Top 5 on the UK charts.
- Hugh Jackman famously performed the key scene for “From Now On” just hours after having fifty-plus stitches removed from a skin cancer biopsy.
Trailer
Stream The Greatest Showman (2017) on:
Our Review
- Quality:
- Acting:
- Storyline:
- Visuals:
- Entertainment:
I truly enjoyed this musical journey. What immediately struck me was Hugh Jackman’s passionate performance; he completely disappears into the role of P.T. Barnum, radiating an infectious energy that carries the entire production. The creative team’s ability to use song and dance to move the story forward is exceptional. Every number, particularly “This Is Me” and “A Million Dreams,” felt like a grand emotional release. Visually, the movie is a triumph. The costuming, the set decorations, and the vibrant cinematography create a feast for the eyes, perfectly matching the soaring melodies. I appreciate how the production handles the relationship between Barnum and the diverse cast of performers, focusing on themes of finding your place and embracing your unique identity. The movie does a magnificent job of making you feel a part of the audience, cheering for the underdogs. It is a spectacular piece of entertainment—a glorious, joyful, and utterly uplifting experience that shines brightly from start to finish. I found myself humming the music for days afterward. This production is simply a celebration of showmanship and dreams realized.
Who Should Watch This?
Stream it if you love high-energy, original musical spectacles with themes of ambition and acceptance, led by a charismatic performance from Hugh Jackman. Skip it if you require a strictly accurate biographical story.
