Classic Kids, or 100 films that the kids in your life have to see by 13 or else!
Day 92: Funny Girl (1968)
Perhaps it is the inner drag queen in me, but I just think every kid should see this film for a taste of theatre history, and also to experience the amazing talents of Babs. I saw this film at the Hilldale theatre, when it first came out, and then and there fell in LOVE with Barbara Streisand. She is simply the only choice for this role. How much talent can one person have? Well...she pushes the limits. Streisand is Fanny Brice and yet still so Streisand. I remember walking (or should I say dancing) home after the movie, trying to sing some of the award winning songs by Bob Merrill and Jule Styne, such as "Don't rain on my parade" "People" "I am the greatest Star" Wow! Directed by William Wyler, based on stage musical (that also starred Streisand) the story is loosely based on the life and stage career of actress/comedienne Fanny Brice and her up and down relationship with gambler Nicky Arnstein, played by Omar Sharriff. Set in New York City on the bring of World War I, much of the story takes place within the world of the Ziegfeld Follies, where Fanny (Streisand) becomes a major star. The great old MGM star, Walter Pidgeon, plays Flo Ziegfeld.
Themes: NYC, Vaudeville, Musicals, Ziegfeld Follies, Stardom
Media Literacy questions for kids: How did the filmmaker tell the story in ways probably not used in the stage production? What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Fanny Brice character? How does music further the plot/action?
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