Moulin Rouge

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, John Leguizamo
Directed by: Baz Luhrmann
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Musical, Drama
2001

Times Seen:
Tim: 2

Summary: Christian, a poor writer (Ewan McGregor) meets Satine, a muse-like prostitute (Nicole Kidman), and the two fall in love. They work together on a play for the Moulin Rouge, but must hide their love from an evil duke. Now, the pair must face their worst nightmares, as either Satine sleeps with the duke, or the play will not go on, and the Moulin Rouge will fall into the hands of the greedy duke.

Review:

Tim: The first thing to mention is that this film is not as much about plot, as it is about choreography and cinematography. From the almost frightening opening scene, you realize you are falling into a bottomless pit, spinning out of control. Scenes fly by you, action, movement, everything going everywhere. The film gives you no time to breathe, no time to pause and figure out what is going on.

If you make it past the first half hour (and trust me, it is hard work to sit through it)you will soon discover some traces of a plot. The film takes place in 1900, but you will soon learn in this film, there is no attention paid to space or time. You'll routinely hear songs by Elton John, Madonna, and many others. Don't try to figure it out- just go with it.

I have to give credit to both Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, for great performances, which includes singing on both their parts. Pay special attention to first time McGregor sings in front of Kidman: the scene is simply amazing. It is awesome seeing and hearing McGregor sing- it is a well worth reward for making it past the chaotic spirl of the first half hour or so of the film.

The thing to mention about Moulin Rouge is that it is truly a cinematically beautiful movie. You simply do not want to close your eyes, as they peruse every detail of every elaborate scene. There is nothing typical about this movie. It is a breath of fresh air in an often stale Hollywood.

In addition to the performances and the cinematography, I was amazed to discover the film tells a very touching love story as well. Kidman and McGregor have incredible chemistry and you can't help getting caught up in the semi-ridiculous but moving plot. This film is a love story wrapped in a time-bending musical and all you really need to know is that it is pure enjoyment to watch.

The movie begins so incredibly strange, but as it progresses, it becomes slightly more conventional. The film is not only beautiful to look at, amazing to listen to, but the film is quite funny as well. I wholeheartedly recommend viewers stick it out, because this film is a touching love tragedy, and you will be pleased you watched it all. Moulin Rouge- high quality and extraordinary film.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: A Life Less Ordinary, "O", Eyes Wide Shut, Cold Mountain