The Will Rogers Follies: A Life In Revue (1993)

Summary
"The Will Rogers Follies: A Life In Revue" is a 1993 American musical movie about the life of popular performer Will Rogers (1879-1935), directed by Michael Ritchie, starring Keith Carradine and Cock Van Dyke. The film is based on a Broadway musical of the same name that won 6 Tony Awards in 1991, including Best Musical.

Storyline
The plot revolves around the life and times of Will Rogers, a popular American entertainer who made significant contributions to the show business in the early 20th century. The script, composed by Peter Stone, unfurls Rogers' journey with an array of exciting cowboy and vaudeville-themed performances. The film showcases his life in an evaluation style anchoring 9 different scenes, each representing a various part of his life - from his simple beginnings in Oklahoma to his increase as an iconic performer.

Characters and Performances
Keith Carradine stands as the central character, Will Rogers, successfully capturing Rogers' charm and unique humor design. His efficiency of dialogue consisting primarily of Rogers' own jokes, wisecracking one-liners, and social remarks is commendable. Penis Van Dyke represents Ziegfeld, the impresario, supplying appealing narrative throughout the film. The other supporting cast includes extra taste and depth to the story, enhancing the program's general dynamism.

Production and Musical Numbers
The movie brings to life the beauty of the Ziegfeld Follies. The production values are high with grand sets, luxurious outfits, and magnificent choreography, representing the magnificence symbolic of Florenz Ziegfeld's Broadway productions. The musical score, penned by famous duo Cy Coleman and Betty Comden & Adolph Green, are performed with flair, intertwining with the story harmoniously. Significant musical numbers such as "Never Met A Man I Didn't Like" and "It's A Boy" wonderfully highlight the important turning points in Rogers' life and profession.

Crucial Reception
Although "The Will Rogers Follies: A Life In Revue" did not match the success of the Broadway production, it was well received by audiences and critics. Critics lauded the performances, especially Carradine's representation of the lead character, echoing Rogers' warm, folksy persona. The movie possibly made its highest praise for its production style, which authentically encapsulates the grandiosity of the Ziegfeld Follies age, and for its high-energy musical numbers, merging the glitz and glamour of a traditional Broadway program with a poignant portrayal of a guy's life.

Conclusion
Overall, "The Will Rogers Follies: A Life In Revue" is an energetic, flashy, and affectionate tribute to a renowned figure in American history, neatly covering his individual and professional life into an unforgettable musical. With Keith Carradine's appealing efficiency, a strong supporting cast, captivating choreography, and intricate production design, the 1993 film stands as a dynamic journey through a significant part of American home entertainment history brought to life by the fascination that was Will Rogers.

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