Reviewing The Sound of Music (1965)... How Are Classic Movies Made??

Okay... I probably shouldn't be reviewing such an old and well known movie, but after seeing it again, I just had to let the whirlpool of emotions and nostalgia gush out somewhere.

The Sound of Music, the movie that really paved the way for the many musicals we have today, is as compelling now as it was when it was released over half a century ago. Maybe it has something to do with the perfect way the songs delve into (and interpret) the story, but it's almost impossible to not be moved by this movie. Or, at least it is for me.

The tale itself is a simple one. Maria (Julie Andrews), a novitiate in a convent known for her notoriety in the breaking of rules is sent away from the convent to expose her to and enable her learn more about life. Her assignment, however, is not so simple -- she is to become the governess of a household of seven children who had lost their mother several years ago. The real problem, it soon turns out, is not the children but their father Georg Von Trapp (Christopher Plummer), a Captain in the navy who, as the mansion's matron puts it, has 'run his home like one of his ships', especially since his wife died. However, Maria, with her natural cheer, stubborness and truthfulness changes things against his wishes, winning over the children, and without realising it, the man himself.

Apart from the characterisation, what I really enjoyed about the movie was the seamless choreography. In this, it's possible to see its theatrical origins, something I only just discovered. This was a very pleasing reveal to me since I work with a theatre troupe known more for its musicals than anything else. I could just imagine the amount of work that must have been needed to get the choreography so... perfect.

Another element that makes the movie so great is its relatability. Just how many persons have experienced those feelings of unexpected love? How many have lost someone and in the process, a part of themselves? How many have struggled to find the true meaning and purpose of their lives? Coupled with the fact that this was set in the time when Nazis where gaining strength and hold over Austria (which is where the movie takes place), and the Von Trapp's desperate attempt to keep from being forced into their ranks, the watcher has no choice but to feel real sympathy for the couple.

Such a tragedy... but one which would win awards even amongst the films of today, and certainly over its 2013 remake staring Carrie Underwood. An instant classic.

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