Gypsy: The Musical

Gypsy: The Musical is a 2015 film directed by Emile Ardolino and written by Arthur Laurents. It tells the story of Rose (Scarlet Roche), an ambitious stage mother living in the 1920s who is determined to make her two daughters, Baby June and Louise, into stars. The film is an adaptation of the 1959 Broadway musical of the same name, with music by Jule Styne and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

The story is based loosely on the memoirs of Gypsy Rose Lee, a famous burlesque performer of the 1930s and 1940s who was also the daughter of a stage mother. In the film, Rose is portrayed as a driven and domineering woman who is convinced that her daughters are destined for greatness in show business. She forces them to perform in vaudeville shows all across the country, despite the fact that the audiences are shrinking and the girls are growing up.

As the years go by, Baby June becomes a successful star in her own right, while Louise (played by Lara Robinson and Imelda Staunton in different stages of her life) is relegated to supporting roles and chorus lines. Rose becomes increasingly frustrated with her lack of success and begins to push her daughters even harder, often resorting to cruel and manipulative tactics to get what she wants.

The film explores themes of sacrifice, ambition, and the dark side of show business. It shows the toll that Rose's relentless pursuit of success takes on her children, as well as on her relationship with her long-suffering partner, Herbie (Billy Hartman). Rose's obsession with fame and fortune leads her down a path of loneliness and regret, culminating in a heartbreaking finale that is sure to leave viewers moved and shaken.

The music in Gypsy: The Musical is both catchy and poignant, with standout numbers like "Everything's 'Coming Up Roses," "Let Me Entertain You," and "Rose's Turn." The dance sequences are also impressive, with intricate choreography that showcases the talents of the performers.

The performances in the film are outstanding, particularly those of Scarlet Roche as Rose and Damien Poole as Tulsa, the young dancer who catches Louise's eye. Roche brings a captivating intensity to her portrayal of Rose, capturing both her fierce determination and her heartbreaking vulnerability. Poole, meanwhile, is a standout in his dance numbers and brings a warmth and charm to his character that is hard to resist.

Overall, Gypsy: The Musical is a powerful and emotional film that showcases the best of musical theater. It tells a compelling story with memorable characters and catchy songs, and provides a stark warning about the dangers of ambition and the price of chasing fame. Fans of the original Broadway production will not be disappointed, and newcomers to the story will be swept away by its tragic beauty.