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Jemfo
Reviews
Alegría (1999)
Not what you would expect from Cirque. That's why I liked it.
Before buying this movie, I read everything I could to see if it was worth it. This is not a filming of the stage version of Alegria, this is a movie that was originally built around it and then took a very different direction. If you are looking for "standard Cirque," this is not the place to find it. Cirque du Soleil often goes beyond fans' expectations, and this is one more case. The movie is well done, though not appropriate for very young children. It is a simple love story, but with dark undertones. Rene Bazinet is excellent in the part of Frac, which was written for him. Julie Cox is decent as Giulietta, though I found her a bit flat. And Clipper Miano IS Momo. The movie alone would be 3 out of 4 stars, but with the DVD extras I give it 3 3/4 out of 4. (I love behind-the-scenes stuff).
If you are looking for the spectacle normally associated with the Cirque, bypass this movie. If, however, you are open to the Cirque reinventing itself yet again, this time on film, give this movie a try. It's different, and therefore it isn't for everybody. But it worked for me.
Annie (1999)
Much better than the 1982 version
Rather than spend money on needless special effects and stretch the plot in a million directions, this movie trims the Broadway show to a decent running time and keeps the original innocence. Alicia Morton is a great Annie, and I really liked Alan Cummings as Rooster and Audra MacDonald as Grace Farrell. Even the "You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile" isn't overly cute. Still not a great musical, but the best "Annie" it can be. Wonderful.
Annie (1999)
Much better than the 1982 version
Rather than spend money on needless special effects and stretch the plot in a million directions, this movie trims the Broadway show to a decent running time and keeps the original innocence. Alicia Morton is a great Annie, and I really liked Alan Cummings as Rooster and Audra MacDonald as Grace Farrell. Even the "You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile" isn't overly cute. Still not a great musical, but the best "Annie" it can be. Wonderful.
Young Frankenstein (1974)
Ain't got nobody, and nobody cares for me! (Yakata chakata yakata cha)
One of the best spoofs, and one of the best all-around films, that I have ever seen. The cast is magnificent, and while a few of the sexual jokes could have been omitted, they do not take away from the hilarity of this movie.
Cinderella (1957)
The Original Rodgers and Hammerstein Version
This musical Cinderella was the original. I like it the best for its innocence... the later versions with Lesley Ann Warren and Brandy were good as well, although much changed. This is my favorite. If you happen to see it, lucky you! The CD of the music is great too.