As a movie critic with a background in both theater and film, I find myself torn between two worlds when it comes to the ongoing debate surrounding audience participation in singing along with musical films like “Wicked.” On one hand, as a former theater kid, I understand the joy and excitement that comes from belting out show tunes alongside your fellow fans. On the other hand, as someone who has had to endure the cacophony of an off-key chorus in a crowded movie theater, I can appreciate why some might view this as a disruption to their cinematic experience.
The launch of this movie has undeniably been a triumph, surpassing all predictions in ticket sales and critical acclaim. Yet, one ongoing issue persists: should audiences be allowed to join in the singing or not. Since its premiere in cinemas last week, the Broadway adaptation starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo has sparked a discussion about whether it’s appropriate for viewers to sing along with the film outside of the designated sing-along screenings. Now, Erivo has expressed her opinion on this matter, adding more confusion to the debate.
Enthusiasts have been thrilled with the film directed by Jon M. Chu, yet its release as an adaptation of such a renowned musical has surprisingly sparked numerous theater enthusiasts eager to perform the hit songs, particularly the epic finale number “Defying Gravity“. This has undeniably caused disagreements, discussions, and online debates about whether it’s appropriate when people have paid to watch a movie instead of hearing amateur renditions in a theater filled with aspiring Glindas and Elphabas.
During an interview at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Today, Erivo expressed her joy about a trend happening in movie theaters, appreciating fans’ responses and urging them to keep singing – despite the possibility of being asked to leave the theater. When informed that people were singing along with the film, she responded: “That’s amazing!
Sounds great! I’m on board with that. After rehearsing it extensively ourselves, now it’s the perfect moment for others to chime in too. It’s truly delightful.
Theater Chains Have Taken a Different Stance on the Matter
While Erivo appreciates fans enjoying the film, no theater worker enjoys dealing with disputes face-to-face when things escalate. Companies like AMC Theatres have opted to show advisories before the movie and display signs urging viewers to “maintain a considerate atmosphere for all spectators.
The debate isn’t fading anytime soon, as one of the movie’s prominent actors has expressed her support. For enthusiasts yearning to belt out their favorite tunes, there are unique screenings starting on December 25th, where people can freely sing along, knowing that everyone else is doing so too. However, it seems plausible that some will attend regular showings with their vocal chords primed in the interim.
The debate has already expanded beyond Wicked, as Dwayne Johnson was recently asked for his stance on the idea of audiences singing along with his new Disney movie, Moana 2. Like Erivo, The Rock was solid in his reply to the question, and told reporters at the movie’s premiere:
If you have a passion for music, this is the enjoyable bit…Go ahead and sing! You’ve spent your valuable earnings on a ticket to attend a musical, and you’re fully immersed in it. So, sing along!
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2024-11-28 23:02