This Broadway Hit Film Is a Cinematic Masterpiece
A new film version of Stephen Sondheim's classic musical, 'Merrily We Roll Along,' is hitting theaters. Starring Daniel Radcliffe and Jonathan Groff, this isn't just a recording of a stage show. Director Maria Friedman takes a bold new approach that could change how we see Broadway on screen forever. But does it work?
When filming a live stage production, creators usually take one of two paths: a straightforward documentary-style recording or an immersive attempt to place the viewer in the audience. However, director Maria Friedman’s new film of Stephen Sondheim’s beloved show, Merrily We Roll Along, carves out a third, more dynamic path. It’s filmed with such a cinematic eye that you almost forget you’re watching a play.
A Story Told in Reverse
For those unfamiliar with the show, Merrily We Roll Along charts the fracturing friendship between a Broadway composer and his two closest friends over several decades. What makes Sondheim’s work so distinct is its unconventional narrative structure—the story unfolds backward in time. This reverse chronological order has long been a point of discussion, with some critics calling it a gimmick while others praise it as an innovative and powerful storytelling device.
The musical's enduring appeal is undeniable. It has seen numerous revivals since its debut more than forty years ago, many of which have earned critical acclaim and prestigious awards, including the very production captured in this film. As a testament to its lasting impact, director Richard Linklater is currently working on a full-fledged movie adaptation, employing the same long-term filming technique he famously used for Boyhood.
Stellar Performances Steal the Show
A major highlight of this production is its star-studded cast. Jonathan Groff, known for his role in Hamilton, and Harry Potter actor Daniel Radcliffe both deliver incredible performances, each earning a Tony Award for their work. It’s no shock that they are both exceptional, bringing deep emotional complexity and impressive vocal talent to their roles.
Surprisingly, though, it isn't one of the Tony-winning leads who shines the brightest. Their co-star, Lindsay Mendez, who received a nomination for her performance, is the true standout. It seems her recognition might have been overshadowed by her more famous male counterparts, as she delivers a performance with more subtlety and commands the stage with an equally powerful presence.
A New Standard for Stage-to-Screen
What makes Maria Friedman’s direction so effective is her confident handling of the show’s unique structure. Translating the energy of an unconventional stage show to the screen is a huge hurdle, one that even acclaimed projects like the Hamilton film struggled with. The constant jumps back in time could have easily disrupted the film's flow, but Friedman navigates this challenge with skill and creativity.
Beyond its smart direction, this filmed version of Merrily We Roll Along distinguishes itself as one of the most visually compelling proshots out there. Friedman isn’t just trying to preserve a stage performance; she wants to pull the audience directly into the world of Sondheim’s creation. The use of frequent close-ups and faster-paced editing, uncommon for many stage recordings, gives the final product the feel of a genuine movie rather than a simple taping.