Sep 13, 2011

FUNNY GIRL [1968]



Director: William Wyler
Writers:  Isobel Lennart (play), Isobel Lennart (screenplay)
Starring:  Barbra Streisand, Omar Sharif and Kay Medford

It is such a pleasure to discover old, timeless movies that enchant me. Funny Girl is a perfect example of that. 

It’s a sweet, rather simple, yet very entertaining and well done film, starring Barbra Streisand as a young Jewish girl trying to be a star. She is often condemned for her looks, but never gives up and always gives heartfelt, funny performances. Omar Sharif, her love interest, is very charming and has that special aura about him, one that only few actors have (Marlon Brando, Gregory Peck, Humphrey Bogart and others).

„Hello, gorgeous” says Fannie Brice at the beginning, showing us, for the first time, a very beautiful, sultry, yet funny and appealing in her own way Barbra Streisand. She isn’t the most beautiful girl in the movie, but, damn, she is charming and commands the stage every time she gets up there. I can’t find a flaw in her performance or look: big hair, short hair, night gowns, silly dresses for shows or amazing party dresses (like the one he wore on the bout), nothing feels out of place. It’s natural, real and I loved it!

The ending is a little bittersweet, but her closing song, when she sings „Oh my man I love him so” is perfect in every way- performance wise, look-wise and sound-wise!

Please do see it, especially if you like musicals or classics, like I do!

p.s. Special mention for one my all time favourite performances, Rain on my parade! It’s a beautiful, strong song!

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