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Moulin Rouge

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor
Director: Baz Luhrmann
Genre: Drama
Year: 2001
Rating: 5 / 5

Reviewed by Guest Scribe Julio

I wish I could have been a fly on the wall when writer / director Baz Luhrmann made his pitch for Moulin Rouge. The simple fact that the film is a musical probably could have earned him the "don't call us, we'll call you" treatment. With the possible exception of Evita, there has not been a successful musical since Grease came out in 1978 (with apologies to all fans of Newsies or Cry-Baby who might be reading this). The fact that the stars of the movie include singing prostitutes, midgets, and narcoleptic Argentineans played by actors who for the most part have no singing or dancing experience could not have helped his cause. Strike three would have to come when he tried to explain that the movie takes place in 1900, but the soundtrack will include the music of Madonna, The Police, and U2. Yet, somehow, Luhrmann got his picture made, and moviegoers everywhere should be thankful, for it is an extraordinary film loaded with captivating visuals, commendable performances, and a simple, yet moving, romantic story.

That is not to say that Moulin Rouge is for everyone. Critics and audience members alike seem to be on opposite sides of the aisle when it comes to the film. Some cannot seem to get past the outrageousness of it all: the surreal colors, the improbable sets, the bizarre characters, and the anachronistic music. I myself was about to ask for a refund after the first fifteen minutes. Yet, eventually the film grew on me, and by its end I realized that underneath everything was a very strong movie. You must watch it with an open mind - a very open mind. Realism and logic rate second here to fantasy and romance. Let your senses soak everything in, but do not over analyze it.

Special mention must be made of Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor, who manage to be convincing in a movie that at times borders on the ridiculous. McGregor is especially impressive as the British writer Christian who falls head-over-heels for Kidman's character. With his combination of charisma and talent, McGregor has established himself as one of the best actors in the business. As for Kidman, she manages to show both the sensitive and seductive sides of her character, and this is probably her most impressive performance to date. The always underrated John Leguizamo is at his best when he plays eccentric characters (like the clown in Spawn and Benny Blanco in Carlito's Way), and he does not disappoint here as Christian's midget friend. Leguizamo, who is 5'10", had to film all of his scenes on his hands-and-knees.

But let's not forget Baz Luhrmann. His fantastical vision of a movie is entertainment at its highest. As in his previous films, Romeo + Juliet and Strictly Ballroom, the innovative, over-the-top style he puts to use in Moulin Rouge is definitely not for everyone, but I think that most people will enjoy it. Ironically, despite the fact that Moulin Rouge is one of the stranger movies to come out in a long while, the story is classically simple. A penniless boy falls for a "bad girl" with a heart of gold, but there always seems to be obstacles between them. But that's not really important; what is important is the experience that the film provides.

Cast:

Certification: Rated PG-13.
Running Time: 120 minutes.

Additional Info: Internet Movie Database
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