With an all star cast, The Greatest Showman has swept the box office and has quickly become a country-wide favorite. This musical drama film has won the hearts of many with its intense storyline and popular soundtrack. “This is Me” is nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song. The movie has rightfully earned the immense praise that it is receiving.

The movie is based on the life of P.T. Barnum and his journey that led up to the opening of the famous “Barnum’s Circus” in New York City, along with his life after. Barnum, played by Hugh Jackman, is a struggling worker at a shipping company, trying to support his family when he decides to open “Barnum’s American Museum” and recruits “freaks” as his performers. At first, the museum has trouble attracting crowds, but eventually, it takes off. Despite harsh critics and public opponents, the museum flourishes and is renamed “Barnum’s Circus.” As the circus’ popularity skyrockets, Barnum faces ups and downs both with his public appearance and his relationships with the performers and his family.

The staging, acting, costumes, and makeup of this movie were all beautifully done, and the message at the end was touching. I think that the best part of the movie, which I can firmly say has gotten the recognition it deserves, was the score. My personal favorite song was “Rewrite the Stars,” but each song is great in its own way.

I went into this movie with high expectations. Zac Efron, Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, and Zendaya are all performers that I’ve seen many times before. I was more than satisfied with their portrayals of these characters. Each one of them was able to embody their character in an incredibly real way, so much so that I forgot that these weren’t people, and merely characters that I was watching on a screen.

Overall, The Greatest Showman is a must see, riveting, and touching movie. From the beginning until the end, the viewer is pulled in by the heartwarming story and equally impressive music. Next time you’re at the movies, make sure to buy a ticket — it’s not one you’ll want to miss!