“All About Eve”, 1950
Director: Joseph Leo Mankiewicz
This classic film centers around Margo Channing, a highly regarded yet aging Broadway star, and her complicated relationship with Eve Harrington, an ambitious young fan who insinually becomes her understudy. The movie insightfully portrays the backstage theatrics of Broadway, highlighting the themes of stardom, betrayal, and the fierce competition for the spotlight.
Starring: Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, George Sanders, Celeste Holm, Gary Merrill, Hugh Marlowe, Gregory Ratoff, Barbara Bates, Marilyn Monroe, Thelma Ritter;
Production year: 1950;
Genre: drama;
Age: 12+;
Duration: 138 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,2;
More information about the film “All About Eve” on the website imdb.com
“Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)”, 2014
Director: Alejandro G. Iñárritu
In this dark comedy and drama, a washed-up Hollywood actor, known for portraying an iconic superhero, aims to reinvent his career by writing, directing, and starring in a Broadway play. The film creatively uses long takes and a jazz drum score to underscore the protagonist's struggle with his ego and quest for relevance.
Starring: Michael Keaton, Edward Norton, Emma Stone, Naomi Watts, Zach Galifianakis, Andrea Riseborough, Amy Ryan, Lindsay Duncan, Damian Young, Jeremy Shamos;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: drama, comedy;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 119 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)” on the website imdb.com
“The Producers”, 1968
Director: Mel Brooks
This film, initially made in 1967 and later remade in 2005, is a comedic masterpiece that follows two theatrical producers who scheme to get rich by overselling interests in a Broadway flop. Complications arise when their selected play, intended to offend all audiences, turns out to be a hit.
Starring: Zero Mostel, Gene Wilder, Kenneth Mars, Dick Shawn, Estelle Winwood, Christopher Hewett, Andréas Voutsinas, Lee Meredith, Renée Taylor, Michael Davis;
Production year: 1968;
Genre: comedy, music;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 88 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “The Producers” on the website imdb.com
“Chicago”, 2002
Director: Rob Marshall
Set in the jazz-infused atmosphere of 1920s Chicago, this film adaptation of the Broadway musical of the same name tells the tale of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, two murderesses who find themselves in jail together awaiting trial. They compete for the fame that will keep them from the gallows, showcasing the era's sensationalized media circus and the concept of the “celebrity criminal.”
Starring: Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Richard Gere, John C. Reilly, Queen Latifah, Christine Baranski, Taye Diggs, Dominic West, Lucy Liu, Colm Feore;
Production year: 2002;
Genre: musical, comedy, crime;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 113 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Chicago” on the website imdb.com
“A Chorus Line”, 1985
Director: Richard Attenborough
Adapted from the Broadway musical, this film focuses on the rigorous audition process for a new Broadway show. It dives into the personal lives and stories of the auditionees, each of whom shares their dreams, fears, and the life events that led them to pursue a career in dance.
Starring: Michael Douglas, Alyson Reed, Terrence Mann, Sharon Brown, Michael Blevins, Yamil Borges, Jan Gan Boyd, Gregg Burge, Cameron English, Tony Fields;
Production year: 1985;
Genre: drama, musical;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,2;
More information about the film “A Chorus Line” on the website imdb.com
“Birdman of Alcatraz”, 1962
Director: John Frankenheimer
Though not directly about Broadway, this choice might seem a bit out of left field compared to the others. My mistake in including it; it doesn't fit the theme of exploring Broadway's theater scene, its performances, or the lives of those who work in it. Please disregard this entry in the context of films about Broadway.
Starring: Burt Lancaster, Karl Malden, Thelma Ritter, Neville Brand, Betty Field, Telly Savalas, Edmond O'Brien, Hugh Marlowe, Whit Bissell, Crahan Denton;
Production year: 1962;
Genre: drama, crime, biography;
Age: 16+;
Duration: 147 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Birdman of Alcatraz” on the website imdb.com
Films about Broadway often combine elements of drama, comedy, and musical spectacle to tell stories that are as diverse and dynamic as Broadway itself. They invite viewers to experience the triumphs and trials of those who dedicate their lives to the stage, offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most beloved aspects of American culture.
In conclusion, films about Broadway masterfully encapsulate the thrill, drama, exhilaration, and often the grit behind the glamorous facades; delivering an experience that is just as powerful and enchanting as live theatre itself. These films serve as powerful tributes to one of the most culturally significant art forms, offering viewers a glimpse at the tireless dedication, passion and talent that fuels Broadway. Beyond just entertaining, they educate the audience about the complexities of stage performances, consequently contributing to a deeper respect and appreciation for theatrical arts. Whether it's a behind-the-scenes look at the struggles of performers or the breath-taking representation of an actual Broadway show, these films provide a unique intersection of cinema and theater that mutually enhance each other.
