Apologies if a thread like this already exists, but I couldn't see one on the first three pages at least!


I love musical theatre, and become increasingly surprised by the amount of shows which were originally films.

My favourite being 'Singin In the Rain'. Does anybody else agree that this is an amazing film for its time? It's a comedy, but, unlike a lot of older films, remains hilarious even today.


What do you think of modern movie-musicals, based on the theatrical versions of the shows? 'Chicago' for example, and 'The Phantom of the Opera', to be released at Christmas?

Personally, I think that stage musicals should remain as stage musicals: the 'Hollywood touch' just doesn't seem right for musicals like 'Phantom'.

If a musical must be made into a DVD, I'd prefer it to be something like 'Cats': filmed with the original West End/Broadway cast, actually on stage. That way, you don't lose the theatrical feel...it's the whole point of musical theatre, after all!!


What are your opinions?

I absolutely love Singin' In The Rain. I also like West Side Story, Anchors Aweigh, On The Town, The King and I and the 1943 version of The Phantom of the Opera. That one isn't a musical per se, but the music that is in it is great.

Sadly have never seen "Singing in the Rain", but was impressed the way they did the "Joseph" DVD starring Donny Osmond. Also, like MusicalBoho enjoyed the Cats DVD. I am glad I saw this before seeing it live, as it helped me to understand what the show would be like!

If you ever watch another movie musical, make it 'Singin in the Rain'. Honestly, the more I watch it, the more I want to go and see the West End version...but unfortunately I've already seen it performed twice and it's lower down on my must-see list...!


I agree that it's often good to see a musical on film before seeing it at the theatre, especially if the musical has a more intricate plot like 'Les Miserables'. Even just listening to the cast recording CDs of musicals like this can give you a good idea of what it will be about, if there isn't a film version of it.