And all that jazz: the new Chicago

This winner of the Oscar for best picture is a fun romp through the roaring twenties of Chicago. It brings the movie musical back to life as a remake of Bob Fosse’s original Broadway show. The story is based around two murderesses striving for fame in the jazzy scene of the 1920s.

With an all star cast, including Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Richard Gere, and first-time director Rob Marshall, this movie throws itself wildly into its musical numbers in dazzling and creative ways that often make the audience feel as though applause is in order. My personal favorites are "Cell Block Tango" and a heartfelt "Mr. Cellophane" sung by John C. Reilly, who is a delightful part of the supporting cast, which also includes Queen Latifah, Taye Diggs, and Christine Baranski.

The plot stays busy with the constant song and dance numbers, so much so that development of the characters is hardly recognizable. The ’20s setting of Chicago is during a time of media power and debatable morals, as the women on trial for killing husbands or boyfriends struggle to find a way out of consequences. It does not speak well for the justice system of this time, which seems to be based less on facts than "razzle dazzle" showiness.

The energy and rhythm of Chicago left me with the feeling I had just seen a stage performance; however, the changes to the original script and the actors’ lack of musical experience make the movie inferior to the stage show. It is definitely worth seeing; everyone except those extreme musical-haters should have an enjoyable viewing.

Although I can’t quite understand how the Academy saw this film as worth the Best Picture status against fellow nominees The Hours and The Pianist, it is a fun and entertaining attempt to bring back the movie musical. Three emus out of four.

Coming Attractions is Weather Vane’s new weekly movie review, coordinated with Campus Activities Committee to provide a preview of the next campus movie. Campus movies are selected and sponsored by CAC, and each new selection usually plays Friday and Saturday night.