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Just another film adaptation of a stage musical or show stoppingly good?
Lost & found: Chicago
Released in 2002 and featuring an all-star cast Chicago blew away viewers with its raunchy characters, audacious plot and fabulous choreography. Winning six academy awards in 2003 the musical film adaptation has gathered prestige over the years and grossed over one hundred and seventy million dollars portraying public approval. Seven years on, is popularity dwindling for this dazzling spectacle or does it stand out in the crowd as a memorable production? I would have to say that with the recent release and huge success of Mamma Mia, musical film adaptations are on the comeback. The catchy songs and glamourous representation of 1920s America leaves the audience feeling upbeat and inspired.
The plot tells the story of stardom-seeking Roxie Hart (Renée Zellweger) who finds herself on Chicago’s infamous Murderess Row. Alongside her is one half of an acclaimed double act, Velma Kelly (Catherine Zeta-Jones). Both are accused of murder and the struggle for lawyer Billy Flynn’s (Richard Gere) service ensues. At times the plot appears to be flawed, for example the vulnerable character of Amos, Roxie’s estranged husband played by John C. Reilly, appears feeble and leaves little to be inspired. However, the light hearted nature and playful register of the film results in a fantastic satirical depiction of the Jazz Age.
Adding to the beauty of the film is the fact that the unforgettable songs are sung by the stars themselves. We can forgive Gere’s weak voice due to him being such a smooth character, whilst Zeta-Jone’s rendition of "And All That Jazz" sends shivers through even the most heartless viewer! Not only do the leading characters belt out the wonderfully jazzy tunes, but Queen Latifah, playing Matron "Mama" Morton busts a few womanly moves in "When You're Good to Mama", which certainly gets those toes wiggling to the music.
I would say a word of warning, this film is a lot like marmite…you will either love it or you will hate it. But boys – do not be put off by the fact that it is a musical. The glamorous quality of the film and the chemistry between Gere, Zelweger and Zeta-Jone’s makes it an appealing option for anyone.
Lauren Hart
The plot tells the story of stardom-seeking Roxie Hart (Renée Zellweger) who finds herself on Chicago’s infamous Murderess Row. Alongside her is one half of an acclaimed double act, Velma Kelly (Catherine Zeta-Jones). Both are accused of murder and the struggle for lawyer Billy Flynn’s (Richard Gere) service ensues. At times the plot appears to be flawed, for example the vulnerable character of Amos, Roxie’s estranged husband played by John C. Reilly, appears feeble and leaves little to be inspired. However, the light hearted nature and playful register of the film results in a fantastic satirical depiction of the Jazz Age.
Adding to the beauty of the film is the fact that the unforgettable songs are sung by the stars themselves. We can forgive Gere’s weak voice due to him being such a smooth character, whilst Zeta-Jone’s rendition of "And All That Jazz" sends shivers through even the most heartless viewer! Not only do the leading characters belt out the wonderfully jazzy tunes, but Queen Latifah, playing Matron "Mama" Morton busts a few womanly moves in "When You're Good to Mama", which certainly gets those toes wiggling to the music.
I would say a word of warning, this film is a lot like marmite…you will either love it or you will hate it. But boys – do not be put off by the fact that it is a musical. The glamorous quality of the film and the chemistry between Gere, Zelweger and Zeta-Jone’s makes it an appealing option for anyone.
Lauren Hart
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