The more I watch this film the more I love it. I remember as a kid finding it kind of scary. I mean Joel Grey's character alone could scare a kid and that was just in brief clips! That said this film has it all superbly written , masterfully directed ,brilliant performances and production and cinematography second to none. Liza Minnelli gets the perfect role for her talent and the supporting cast is exceptional especially Joel Grey and a small role by Marissa Bernson . I am making a special point of mentioning Marisa because on rewatching the film a couple of days ago I was struck by her character ( Natalia) interacting with Sally Bowels (Minnelli ) they couldn't be more different. Sally is free spirted ,uninhibited by the mores while Natalia is demure and proper ,conventional .Their one and only one to one conversation they are very respectful and not judgmental of each other. Her romance with Fritz one of Brian's students(he tutors Fritz and Natalia in English) faces a barrier that will prove to be nonexistent . Happily they work it out.
The film shows the rise of the Nazi party in Berlin in the early 1930's everyone is affected by it sooner or later except it seems Sally This however is not to be critical of Sally as it simply fits her personality and outlook. I wish it had affected her more but it is keeping with her character.
There is humor and poignancy in her friendship and maybe something else with her relationship with Brian especially when Maxamillian is here and then gone. Things get complicated but Sally makes a choice for herself and them because she knows herself and knows what needs to be .One of the most amusing parts is when Sally realizes Maxamillian has been sleeping not only with her but Brian as well.
Joel Grey as the Marster of ceremonies keeps feeding us information or observations but doing it with mirth and detachment and an unsettling smile.
The musical numbers stay with you long after the film is over .The title of the film of the highlight number could easily be Sally's anthem .
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