REVIVAL: Moulin Rouge! (2001) dir. Baz Luhrmann | Showgays

Brief Summary

This podcast episode discusses the movie musical "Moulin Rouge!" (2001), analyzing its plot, music, historical context, and cultural impact. The hosts share their personal histories with the film, discuss its production details, and debate its merits and flaws. They also explore the film's themes, including love, art, and commercialism, and consider its legacy in popular culture.

• The hosts discuss the plot of Moulin Rouge!
• They analyze the music and production design.
• The cultural impact of the film is debated.

Intro

The podcast episode starts with a strong opening, setting the stage for a discussion about "Moulin Rouge!". The hosts make a bold claim that the movie is the reason that we have legal gay marriage in America. They also mention that it's Valentine's Day and they went to the Cheesecake Factory. One of the hosts shares her favorite flower and apologizes for dating a man.

Mailbag: Wonka and The Color Purple

The hosts read an email from a listener named Lucas who defends the movie "Wonka" and criticizes "The Color Purple" musical. Lucas expresses disappointment that the Golden Globes didn't nominate more movie musicals and shares his anticipation for the "Mean Girls" movie musical. The hosts respond to Lucas's opinions, discussing their own views on "Wonka," "The Color Purple," and the role of conflict in their podcast.

Plot Summary and Initial Impressions

Molly summarizes the plot of "Moulin Rouge!" in under a minute, highlighting the key events and tragic love story. She shares her history with the film, expressing her love for it since middle school. Adam admits to second-screening during the rewatch, while RJ recalls his initial dislike for the movie but acknowledges its impact on his sister.

Production Details and Influences

The hosts discuss the production details of "Moulin Rouge!", including its director, writers, producers, and cast. They mention that it's the third film in Baz Luhrmann's "red curtain trilogy" and highlight the actors who were considered for the lead roles. They also share interesting facts about the film's budget, box office success, and the injuries that Nicole Kidman sustained during filming. Luhrmann's inspiration from Bollywood movies and operas is explored, along with the film's connections to "La Bohème," "La Traviata," and the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.

Initial Thoughts and the Elephant Love Medley

Molly expresses her love for "Moulin Rouge!" and its creative use of jukebox musical elements. Adam admits that the excess in the movie is not for him, but he respects the technical aspects and the clear vision of Baz Luhrmann. The hosts then discuss the "Elephant Love Medley," dissecting the songs included in the medley and praising its cleverness and emotional impact.

Frenetic Energy and Production Design

The hosts discuss the frenetic energy of "Moulin Rouge!" and how it contributes to the film's unique style. They also analyze the production design, particularly the elaborate sets and costumes, and how they enhance the film's overall aesthetic. The discussion touches on the film's use of an unreliable narrator and the contrast between the idealized past and the dilapidated present.

Elephant Love Medley and Kylie Minogue

The hosts continue their discussion of the "Elephant Love Medley," focusing on specific lines and their meaning within the context of the film. They also mention Kylie Minogue's cameo in the movie and the songs she recorded for her brief appearance. The conversation then shifts to a debate about the film's influence on gay marriage, with one host arguing that "Moulin Rouge!" and "Glee" played a significant role in changing public opinion.

Spectacular Spectacular and the Can-Can

The hosts discuss the "Spectacular Spectacular" performance and the can-can scene, praising Nicole Kidman's comedic performance and the film's overall silliness. They also touch on the tragic arc of Satine's character and the feminist critique of her death serving as a plot device. The conversation then veers into a discussion of the Bechdel test and its limitations.

Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend and 9/11

The hosts analyze Nicole Kidman's performance of "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" and its significance in introducing her character. They also discuss the film's release before and after 9/11 and how the event may have impacted its reception. The conversation then shifts to a discussion of the Duke's character and the actors who have played Dracula.

Tango Roxanne and Background Characters

The hosts discuss the "Tango Roxanne" scene, praising its choreography and its clever integration of the song into the plot. They also analyze the character of Roxanne, the unnamed dancer who betrays Satine, and debate her motivations. The conversation then touches on the background queer characters in the film and how they are portrayed.

Ewan McGregor and the Ending

The hosts discuss Ewan McGregor's performance as Christian and his transition from "Moulin Rouge!" to "Star Wars." They also analyze the ending of the film, including Satine's death and Christian's monologue. The conversation then touches on the song "Come What May" and its origins in "Romeo + Juliet."

Critical Reception and MVP

The hosts discuss the critical reception of "Moulin Rouge!", highlighting both positive and negative reviews. They also share quotes from Letterboxd users and discuss their personal MVPs for the film. The conversation then shifts to a discussion of who they would cast in a remake of the movie.

Remake Casting and Outro

The hosts continue their discussion of who they would cast in a remake of "Moulin Rouge!", offering various suggestions for Satine and Christian. They then wrap up the episode, thanking their listeners and promoting their social media accounts. The episode concludes with a preview of their next movie, "42nd Street."