For friends, who are not interested in English Musicals, I would like to vouch for this remarkable work released in 1971, with a sincere request of giving this movie a chance. I strongly believe that “Fiddler on the Roof” will undoubtedly change your whole outlook towards foreign musicals, within its first hour itself. And for friends who are already familiar with this particular genre, it will certainly be a worthwhile experience to watch this great epic with all your family members together. Frankly speaking, I wasn’t expecting much from the movie as it started. But the moment I witnessed its opening introductory sequence about the “Value of Traditions” and “Family”, I simply stood awestruck with its mesmerizing impact. The magnetic pull of its innovative musical notes accompanied by the captivating act of Topol (the lead actor), was simply one of the best starts I had ever seen.
It’s the story of a loving father living with his wife and five lovely daughters in a village called Anatevka situated in Russia. The period is of early twentieth century when “The Family Traditions” still played the most important roles in the life of people living in that village. The main plot revolves around the conflict elders have to face when their own children refuse to agree to their ages old traditional values and start revolting. The dilemma experienced by the loving father is depicted brilliantly in this Oscar Winner movie, also rated as one of the best musicals made till date.
In fact the main reason, why you should watch this period movie is the actor Topol, who plays the carefree and full of life father of his five beautiful girls. The way he infuses life into his lively character is quite remarkable and entertaining. His immensely enjoyable dances, his one sided monologues with “The GOD” and his well written dialogues with repeated phrases of “On the other hand” truly deserve many repeated viewings by anyone who loves the medium of cinema from heart.
Though the movie proceeds at a slow speed in the middle, but it still successfully leaves a highly positive impact on the viewer in the end. The creative genius of the director Norman Jewison along with his master mind cinematographer is clearly visible thoughout the movie, especially in the precious life teaching scenes of Topol, where he is all alone talking to his animals, himself and his GOD.
In few words, with a life time performance to study, “Fiddler on the Roof” is a pure musical gem, deserving to be seen at the earliest, for its highly entertaining and enlightening moments for all.
Directed By Norman Jewison
Starring : Topol, Norma Crane and more.
