Title: The Sound of Music
Starring: Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer
Directed by: Robert Wise
Number on the AFI List: 40
Year: 1965
I know that Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music are totally different and awesome in their own ways, but I couldn't help but chuckle at the typecasting Julie Andrews received on two of her first films. That aside, The Sound of Music is remarkable not only because of Andrew's fabulous performance as Maria, but the rest of the cast as well. The children's voices are beautiful and captivating from the moment they begin to sing. The "Do-Re-Me" scene is so fun; its so rewarding to see the children be children again and find their individual voices. I loved watching Captain Von Trapp's character arch from being a strict, commanding father who doesn't know how to love his children well to a more lenient, loving man, all thanks to Maria. The fabulous nuns, especially the compassionate Mother Abbess, were a joy to watch. I loved how Mother Abbess showed so much grace to Maria, encouraging Maria to face her problems head on and to not feel shame or guilt because she'd fallen in love with Captain Von Trapp. And of course, the entire family's bravery to not succumb to the Nazi's demands of Captain Von Trapp joining their ranks was inspiring and suspenseful.
I've seen this movie many times, the musical a couple of times, and it never fails to be captivating and moving. It will stand the test of time because of its beauty and bravery, and will always be one of the greatest musicals of the 20th century.
Favorite moment: there are too many to name. Probably the "Do-Re-Me" scene. Its one of the moments that has stuck in my brain since I was a child.
Will I watch it again: yes!
