Tag: robert wise

You have to live the life you were born to live. “The Sound of Music” (1965)

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directed by Robert Wise
© 1965 20th Century Fox. All Rights Reserved.

Let’s get back to the 60s and enjoy the sound of music, shall we? I’m sure many of you recognise this production even if you haven’t seen it yet. Lots of artists have got inspired by this story and the film adaptation definitely popularised it on a bigger scale. Because if you didn’t know – the film I’m recommending today is an adaptation of the stage musical from 1959. However, the screenplay of that stage musical isn’t a totally made-up thing. In fact, it’s based on the memoir of Maria von Trapp called “The Story of the Trapp Family Singers”. So what you’ll see in the film is mostly based on a real story, which to me is even more exciting. Everything is set in the late 30s in Austria. The main character is actually Maria (Julie Andrews), a young woman who’s preparing to become a nun. Unfortunately, shortly speaking, she’s way too fun to stay in the abbey, so she’s ordered to work for Captain Georg von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). The man is very wealthy and has a huge villa where he lives with his seven children. Their mother died and Captain finds it difficult to raise this whole bunch on his own, therefore he needs a governess. At first, the children aren’t thrilled about meeting Maria, but the woman has so much charm that she manages to become their friend quite fast. However, Captain is a very strict man and he’s used to discipline, while Maria is a free spirit who finds pleasure and happiness in everything around her. Those two seem to be from totally different worlds, yet at some point they find something in common – and it’s their love for music. And that’s all I want to share about the plot so you can enjoy discovering it. This musical is an absolute classic and a must-see. Even if you don’t like musicals, this one is a significant piece of art in the world of cinema, so if you’re a cinephile who likes understanding references and certain allusions, go and watch it. It’s difficult for me to say anything against it because it’s a legendary production made from A to Z. The songs you may hear in this musical are still remembered and appreciated, and it’s impossible not to sing along with the characters. Besides, Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer did a marvellous acting job there, which gives real chills and makes you feel lucky that you’ve shared this planet with such artists – at least I do feel so. And last but not least – it’s fascinating how they presented those historically difficult years in contrast to Maria’s spirit and never-ending optimism that she shared with the whole Trapp family. The scene where all of them perform is worth more than any words. Therefore, I’ll stop my post here and just say – watch it, appreciate it, enjoy it.

My rating: 8/10
S.

In America nothing is impossible! “West Side Story” (1961)

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directed by Robert Wise & Jerome Robbins
© 1961 United Artists. All Rights Reserved.

The year 2021 hasn’t been our favourite, let’s face it, but there are some brighter moments worth remembering. One of them is the release of “West Side Story” remake. However, before I recommend the remake, I guess it’s important to share a few words about the original film adaptation. Yes, adaptation, because “West Side Story” is actually a Broadway musical, which in 1961 two gentlemen moved to a screen.  It’s one of the most iconic musicals, which was awarded with ten Oscars and its songs are incredibly popular all over the world. Perhaps younger generations don’t know much about it, yet I’m sure they’ve heard at least one the music pieces from this production somewhere on TikTok or wherever young people learn about art these days. The story is more or less based on “Romeo and Juliet” as we also get two groups – Jets and Sharks. They are teenage gangs from the Upper West Side in the 50s New York. Jets are white Americans, while Sharks are Puerto Ricans. Both gangs fight for respect and wish the other one not to get in their way. One day, (un)fortunately, a Jet named Tony (Richard Beymer) meets Maria (Natalie Wood), the sister of Shark’s leader. Despite coming from different backgrounds, those two fall in love with each other. Classic Romeo and Juliet. And just like in the Shakespeare’s play, no matter how much the lovers want to be together, the whole world around them does everything to keep them apart. As long as the film doesn’t leave me speechless, I do believe it’s a must-see. It’s one of those productions that you should see to feel respect towards old cinema and understand certain references in modern art. Personally, I think this musical (from 1961) has become outdated. It shares values and messages that are still important, yet its form may discourage younger generations. I do appreciate the hard work, I believe the choreography was marvellous and all actors worked very very hard. Yet, now as I’ve seen the 2021 remake, I can say: “Bless you, Steven Spielberg!” But remember – to judge a remake, you should always see the original piece, and I hope you feel encouraged to do that. It was and still is a very important production in American cinema, with gorgeous Natalie Wood (who’s been a truly tragic figure, but maybe I’ll tell you about it one day), presenting the everyday life issues of people in New York, which may still be present, just nicely covered. And perhaps that’s why Spielberg decided to remind us about the musical? Can’t tell. Yet from me it’s a reminder that you should see it.

My rating: 6/10
S.