There are so many films that come out every week let alone every year, aren’t there? We can get so caught up with trying to keep up with the latest awards contenders, box office hits, and culturally relevant pieces that we just don’t have enough time to turn back the clock and check out films from the past. But it is so important to expand our horizons and experience the art that has set the stage for today’s cinema. You might need to find the time, so it is important to make wise choices about what you watch. Whether we head back 10 years, 50 years, or even 100 years, there is great cinema throughout the years. But let’s rewind the clock and here are some reasons why you should check out… The Sound of Music (1965)
| Directed by: Robert Wise Starring: Julie Andrews, Christopher Plummer, Eleanor Parker, Richard Hayden, Peggy Wood, Heather Menzies-Urich |
Julie Andrews
Who is more of a treasure than Julie Andrews? She was such an impeccable talent in her prime. Unfortunately, she can no longer sing but she brings such a dynamic presence to The Sound of Music. Her perfect voice elevates every single classic song that she sings. Her physicality is impressive as well as she sells every dance more, every run, and clumsy movement. Marie is a flawed but loving and charming woman and Andrews delivers every single bit of it. Her natural charisma is magnetic, and she makes this performance one for the ages. There is humility, strength, and life in every choice that she makes.
Christopher Plummer
It takes two to tango, right? Plummer is challenged to deliver two distinct performances in this film. He is commanding, cold, and sarcastic in the earlier parts of the film. His presence and strength as an actor make this performance so believable. But when his heart melts thanks to his children and Maria, we are treated to a charming and raw performance. His singing delivers and his humor and charm make it so obvious why Andrews would find herself in his arms by the end of the film. Plummer delivers a perfect complimentary performance to Andrews.
The Children
Would this film work without the children? Absolutely not. They are the heart of the film. Each of these young performers brings so much life to these roles. Each of them has a distinct personality as well as an approach to bringing their characters to life. It is difficult to resist their charm and not fall for this ragtag group of siblings who want nothing more than to connect with their father. They are genuine and certainly deliver on the musical expectations of them as well.
The Music
Are there many musicals that are as iconic as The Sound of Music? This film would soar from that perspective solely based on the individual work of Andrews. But luckily for everyone, there are many musical numbers that get to highlight others. The film can bring each song to life thanks to the impressive performers responsible for singing them as well as Wise’s direction that makes them so cinematic. There are so many iconic songs that it is hard to choose one. But the tone is set so well by Andrew’s performance of “The Sound of Music” atop a beautiful mountain range. How many musicals can say that they start that way?
The Story
How many musicals can boast such a fascinating and weighty story behind the music? The von Trapp family made such a brave journey to escape the clutches of the Nazis. This film balances its familial drama, search of faith, and WWII tale so perfectly. There are a lot of story elements and tones to balance. Wise delivers impressive tension in the third act of the film and flexes with some moving human drama in the first two acts. There are plenty of emotions to be had while watching this unbelievable tale.
The Cinematography
What a gorgeous film this is? The Sound of Music is best known for its music, but it is the cinematography that brings it to life. The camera work is slick and how it frames the musical numbers and the story in general is impressive. There are beautiful shots of the mountains (you just might think you are watching The Lord of the Rings). The wide frame and lens bring so much scope to this sprawling film that brings the Austrian land to life in the story. There are few film musicals that can boast such a look thanks to its beautiful setting and impressive technical work.
