Review of Gigi (1958) by Andrew A — 22 Dec 2015

3 1/2 stars. This film went by faster than almost any other film I've seen. It wasn't because of a deliriously fast pace or really anything special about the plot or characters, but there was always something to distract you if you couldn't get involved in the story. The distractions, of course, are the backdrops, which are breathtakingly beautiful. Every shot is perfect and stunning, in a way that at times is almost smirking-ly unrealistic. And at times the plot does drag down, especially near the hour and twenty minute mark, when Gigi begins to "grow up" in Gaston's mind.

Since this is a musical, the singing must be accounted for. While the singing talent isn't anything great (and sometimes is just tolerable), the songs themselves are fantastic! The lyrics are quite funny at times, and always convey the emotions of the characters, therefore avoiding the nuisance of explaining them through dialogue right in the middle of the film. And, while the actors might not be the best singers, they are very good actors. Sure, all the parts are hammed up, but that's because they are written as hammy characters. Everyone seems to be fully involved in what's happening amd what they are doing, which helps to draw in the viewer even more.

Ultimately, this was a fun, diverting, and entirely engrossing movie, even when the plot downward-spiraled on itself with a dumb final act. But, great songs and performances bolster things up. And, if that's not enough, the beautiful backdrops steal the show whenever you consider drifting away. Sure, they can be distracting; but what a great thing to distract you! It is a great story about the loves in the world, both for spouses and children, and what they're really made of.