Why I loved The Greatest Showman

I’m not sure this has ever happened before … or that I can remember … strolling out of a movie theater feeling pure joy. Wonder and hope.

I felt all these emotions after experiencing The Greatest Showman with Hugh Jackman.

I immediately downloaded the soundtrack.

My decision to see the movie was random – typically my best decisions happen that way.

Numbly scrolling through Facebook, I stumbled upon a friend’s post of a behind-the-scenes video of  Keala Settle singing “This is Me” at a table reading. That powerful performance – and feeling the electric energy of the cast – prompted me to purchase my ticket.

This was my first time going to the movies alone – and this was the movie to do it.

My singular focus on the story was pushed forward by brilliant vocal performances by Keala and Loren Allred, dynamic choreography and beautiful rich visuals. They inspired a freedom to tap my feet, hum to the beats and laugh aloud. No party-of-one holding back, blending in. Nope.

This next part will probably sound really weird (if this post hasn’t already sounded weird LOL).

Leaving the movie theater, smiling obviously, I walked to a store next door.

The sales clerk asked what I was up to that day. I replied I had just came from the movies – saw The Greatest Showman. Her response, “Comedy or drama?”

“Musical. It was wonderful!” I smiled. Her smile grew larger.

A tiny interaction that I needed – to be present and humble. We are what we give to the world.

Choose to give joy, love, compassion.

Thank you, P. T. Barnum, for inspiring a wonderful, curious story about pushing boundaries within ourselves, dreaming fearlessly, letting go of society’s conventionalities and embracing the possibilities all around us.

The noblest art is that of making others happy – P. T. Barnum

 

P.S. If you want to read a real movie review, check out Owen Gleiberman’s write-up in Variety, “Film Review: The Greatest Showman.”