Greatest Showman vs Moulin Rouge!: A Detailed Comparison of Two Musical Masterpieces

‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘Moulin Rouge!’ are two highly successful musical films that were released in 2017 and 2001, respectively. Both movies have received critical acclaim for their stunning visuals, captivating music, and engaging storylines. However, there are some distinct differences between the two films that set them apart from each other.

‘The Greatest Showman’ is a biographical musical drama film that tells the story of P.T. Barnum, the founder of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. The film stars Hugh Jackman as Barnum and features a star-studded cast that includes Zac Efron, Zendaya, and Michelle Williams. The movie is set in the mid-1800s and follows Barnum’s rise to fame as he creates his circus and showcases his talented performers. The film’s soundtrack features original songs that were written specifically for the movie.

‘Moulin Rouge!’ is a jukebox musical film that takes place in Paris in the early 1900s. The movie stars Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor and features a talented cast of actors and singers. The story follows Christian, a young writer who falls in love with Satine, a courtesan who performs at the Moulin Rouge. The film’s soundtrack is a collection of popular songs from various artists and time periods, including Elton John and Queen.

One of the main differences between the two films is their musical style. ‘The Greatest Showman’ features a more contemporary pop-style music while ‘Moulin Rouge!’ is a jukebox musical that incorporates a range of genres, including rock, pop, and classical music. The musical numbers in ‘The Greatest Showman’ are performed by the movie’s cast, while ‘Moulin Rouge!’ features covers of popular songs performed by the actors.

Another difference between the two films is their tone. ‘The Greatest Showman’ is an uplifting and inspirational film that celebrates individuality and diversity. The movie has a positive message about pursuing your dreams and embracing your unique talents. In contrast, ‘Moulin Rouge!’ is a darker and more tragic film that explores themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal. The movie’s ending is bittersweet and leaves the audience with a sense of sadness.

In terms of their visual style, both films are visually stunning and feature elaborate set designs and costumes. However, ‘The Greatest Showman’ has a more brightly colored and whimsical aesthetic that matches the film’s upbeat tone, while ‘Moulin Rouge!’ has a darker and more decadent look that reflects the film’s darker themes.

Overall, both ‘The Greatest Showman’ and ‘Moulin Rouge!’ are excellent musical films that showcase the talents of their respective casts and creative teams. While they have some distinct differences in terms of their music, tone, and visual style, they both offer a memorable and entertaining movie-watching experience.