Gypsy: The Musical [DVD]

Great film probably not for the young

Imelda Staunton was amazing

Maverick? Is this the english word you may say about me when you have read my opinion? If so, you are unfair and unjust.And I’m not out of my mind because I’m sure I’m right in my clear fight when revivals of great ‘musicals’ offer new uselessorchestrations. One of the very best musicals of the history of the American Musical Theatre is undoubtedly Styne’s GYPSY.I do love all the beautiful musicals signed Jule Styne. GYPSY is a masterpiece and Styne had all the possibilities of composing just himself the orchestrations of his marvellous work (as Gershwin or Bernstein or … ), but these were made by Sid Ramin & Robert Ginzler, surely following Styne’s counsels and suggestions who certainly approved their work. The ouverture of GYPSY in its original sound could even appear in a classical concert together with music by Schubert, Haydn or Stravinsky - as it happens with the ouverture of Bernstein’s CANDIDE. It is sad to observe that even Wikipedia does not mention the names of the above mentioned orchestrators on the site reserved to Styne’s GYPSY. Bad, too bad.The credits of this musical should always be as follows:GYPSYA musical fable by Arthur Laurents and Stephen SondheimMusic by JULE STYNEOrchestrations by Sid Ramin and Robert Ginzler---- This dvd, anyway, offers a great performance, everything seems perfect, but let me be nostalgic: even if Imelda Staunton is to be admired (even if someone wrote she screams the songs! And wrote it rightly!!) , I couldn’t forget Ethel Merman or Angela Lansbury. I had the joy to be in London when Angela Lansbury was Rose in GYPSY - I went to see the show twice, also to enjoy Bonnie Langford as Baby June (nobody can be better in this role!). Here the young girl is irritating and fastidious. Anyway I wonder why - WHY - there’s nowadays this necessity to remake the original orchestrations: here the new sound is not at all outrageous respect to the original, but why why why … The conductor is however excellent in keeping it alive and kicking. So I have to end admitting that I saw this performance with interest but not with great enthusiasm, ending with the conclusion that, for me, it is better to listen to my lps with Merman or Lansbury that repeating to watch this perfect show … perfection may be absolutely a force but può anche peccare di qualcosa.Ernesto …

I was torn between buying this version or the original (which I had seen before a couple of times). I opted for this one because I wondered how it would compare. I have to say I really enjoyed this and was very impressed with Imelda Staunton. Who knew she could sing so well! I imagine this would of been a fantastic show to go and see live. I still like the original film but I will enjoy watching this again too. A very entertaining Musical. Glad I bought it.

This show is fantastic,filmed at the Savoy Theatre London, imelda Staunton is superb in both singing and of course her acting, it follows the story of gypsy rose Lee from childhood to adulthood in a very humourous and at times sad way. Peter Davidson is very good in it too and also sings. If you're a fan or especially if you've never seen the original movie I would recommend this. 5stars from me.

I was lucky enough to see this production at the beautiful Art Deco theatre which is the Savoy. What is achieved on a moderately sized stage was a joy to behold!The central rôle of Mama Rose played by Imelda Staunton is a brilliant portrayal of a 'stage mother' consumed with showbusiness to the exclusion of those who love her and want to be loved by her. Now here's the opportunity for everyone who couldn't get to see this wonderful musical in person, to see it in the comfort of their own home. Staunton keeps up the pressure right through to the end - many well-known songs are delivered by a hugely talented cast in many fast moving and brilliantly conceived locations and are showstoppers in their own right. Look out for the side-splitting trio of burlesque strippers in the hilarious 'Gotta Have A Gimmick' number.But the show belongs to Staunton and she rightly deserves the standing ovation at the end. Well filmed with good sound, this DVD gives one the best seat in the house!It is to be hoped that the National Theatre record Stephen Sondheim's masterpiece 'Follies' for DVD release, as Imelda Staunton is giving another shattering performance there until January.There is also talk of this production of 'GYPSY' opening on Broadway with Staunton sometime next year.......But for now this DVD isHIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Such a wonderful film with great cast……you won’t be disappointed…..A stunning musical straight from your arm chair

Although not as good as seeing it live. Too many close ups for me. A very good version of what I saw on the stage.