Review of Fiddler on the Roof (1971) by Willem W — 22 Nov 2007

I dont much enjoy the musical form. However, Norman Jewison took this simple little story, went to the Ukraine, shot everything, including the musical parts out in the open, in the sunlight and the snow and found the heart of this sad, sad story about a man, his faith, and his daughters.

Chaim Topol absolutely rocks and anchors this movie wth a larger-than-life performance that stays rooted in the earth he so back-breakingly toils. My favorite musical film which benefits from having one of the best song scores I've ever heard, not a crappy song or moment of musical filler.

The bottle dance is a sight to behold. An ending that makes you cry, then shoots you with a little jolt of hope before the fade out. Directed by a Canadian!