The Greatest Showman (2017)
Synopsis:
The Greatest Showman follows the story of P.T. Barnum, a visionary who rises from humble beginnings to create a mesmerizing spectacle that becomes a worldwide sensation. Barnum gathers a unique group of performers, including a bearded lady, a trapeze artist, and a dwarf, to form a circus that captivates audiences. As the show gains popularity, Barnum faces challenges from society and his own ambitions. He partners with playwright Phillip Carlyle, who helps bring the show to new heights. Meanwhile, Barnum's personal life, including his relationship with his wife Charity and their daughters, is tested as he navigates the complexities of fame and success. The film is filled with vibrant musical numbers and showcases the journey of Barnum and his troupe as they strive to entertain and inspire.
Where To Watch: The Greatest Showman
Parental Feedback
The Greatest Showman, released in 2017, is a musical drama that captivates audiences with its vibrant performances and inspiring story. As a movie rated PG, it is primarily aimed at kids, offering a blend of entertainment and life lessons. Parents generally appreciate its positive messages and engaging musical numbers, though some express concerns about its historical accuracy and thematic depth.
Why Kids Should Watch The Greatest Showman
The Greatest Showman is celebrated for its uplifting themes and dazzling musical sequences.
- Promotes the value of embracing diversity and celebrating differences
- Features a strong character arc with P.T. Barnum's journey from humble beginnings to success
- Offers visually stunning musical numbers that captivate young audiences
- Encourages perseverance and following one's dreams
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch The Greatest Showman
Some parents are concerned about the film's portrayal of historical events and its emotional intensity.
- May present a romanticized view of historical figures and events
- Includes scenes of conflict and personal struggle that might be intense for younger viewers
- Some thematic elements may require parental explanation to fully understand
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about historical inaccuracies and thematic depth.
What Parents Should Know About The Greatest Showman
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The movie encourages acceptance and inclusivity, as seen in the formation of the circus troupe. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | The film includes moments of personal struggle and conflict, such as Barnum's financial difficulties. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | Yes, Barnum faces consequences for his ambition-driven decisions, leading to personal growth. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | The circus performers work together to overcome societal prejudice and achieve success. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the importance of acceptance and pursuing one's dreams despite obstacles. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
The Greatest Showman is praised for its vibrant musical numbers and positive messages about diversity and perseverance. While some parents note concerns about historical accuracy and thematic depth, these elements can be addressed through discussion. Engaging with your child during and after the movie can enhance their understanding and enjoyment. For those seeking similar themes, films like "Sing" or "Coco" might also be appealing.
Official The Greatest Showman Trailer
The Core Values Learned From The Greatest Showman
The Greatest Showman's most common core values include Acceptance, Being yourself, and Celebrating differences. Kids see these values come to life as P.T. Barnum brings together a diverse group of performers who are unique in many ways. These characters, such as the bearded lady and the dwarf, find a place where they are celebrated for who they are, rather than being judged or shunned. This helps children understand the importance of accepting others and themselves, no matter how different they might be.
One scene that stands out in showcasing these values is when Barnum holds auditions for his circus troupe. He isn’t searching for people who perfectly fit a mold; instead, he's excited about those who are different and have talents that make them unique. This moment shows kids how being yourself can lead to incredible opportunities and friendships. It also encourages empathy, as viewers see Barnum’s acceptance and support of each performer’s individuality, encouraging them to take pride in who they are.
Other Core Values Explored: Courage | Determination | Empathy | Family love | Friendship | Inclusion | Inclusivity | Perseverance | Resilience | Self-discovery | Self-expression | Standing up for what's right | Teamwork | Valuing diversity
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From The Greatest Showman
Believing in Yourself: The characters in THE GREATEST SHOWMAN demonstrate immense self-belief, especially when Barnum inspires them to embrace their true selves and shine in the spotlight. His unwavering faith in their talents encourages them to overcome societal judgment and embrace their unique abilities.
Celebrating Uniqueness: The movie highlights the importance of celebrating what makes each person unique. Barnum's circus is a testament to this, where performers are applauded for their distinct talents and appearances rather than being sidelined for them.
Embracing Differences: Barnum's journey teaches viewers the beauty of embracing differences. By creating a family out of his diverse group of performers, he shows that accepting and valuing diversity can lead to enriching and life-changing experiences for everyone involved.
Following Your Passion: Barnum's relentless pursuit of creating a spectacular show serves as a reminder to follow one's passion. Despite obstacles, he remains driven by his love for entertainment and storytelling, which ultimately leads to the success of his circus.
Never Giving Up: Throughout the movie, Barnum and his troupe exemplify resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous setbacks and challenges, they continue to push forward with unwavering spirit, teaching children the importance of perseverance in achieving their dreams.
Other Lessons Learned: Pursuing Big Dreams | Supporting Your Friends | Valuing Inner Beauty
Why Kids Love The Greatest Showman
The Greatest Showman invites kids into an exciting world where daring stunts and lively dances take center stage. P.T. Barnum’s circus is bursting with color and energy, filled with characters who sing and dance their hearts out. As Barnum gathers a band of intriguing performers, like acrobats soaring through the air or daring fire-breathers, kids are pulled into a realm where anything seems possible. They get to watch jaw-dropping routines and catchy songs that make them want to join in and dance along. The movie is a mesmerizing blend of spectacle and surprises, with each performance adding a dash of magic and wonder that leaves kids wide-eyed and eager for more.
In this wonderland of amazing feats, kids become immersed in the whirlwind of new friendships and wild adventures. Barnum's troupe, packed with unique personalities, brings humor and excitement through their unexpected friendships and teamwork triumphs. As the characters leap into thrilling challenges, kids can feel the thrill of what it's like to be part of something big and unstoppable. With a dazzling mix of giant spectacles and funny mishaps, the movie showcases how sticking together can create the most extraordinary moments. The vibrant scenes and wild settings ensure that kids have a blast, keeping them on the edge of their seats as the magic of the show unfolds before them.