Come from Away

I'm not a big fan of musicals. They usually leave me feeling that they're very artificial, the story of a play being an excuse for some music. This film transcends that. The story is engrossing, the cast superb as they transform from one character into another each believably full fleshed. As other reviewers have noted, the story itself transforms over the course of the film - revliving the horror of 9/11, the confusion and panic of those caught up in its consequences, the struggle for acceptance and liberation from stereotypes, but above it all the incredible generous hospitality of a little town shown to fellow human beings in trouble. And with it all, the vocal performances are excellent. It's the whole package.

I'm not positive this is a great "film," but it sure is great theater. The director's previous experience was mostly with the stage, and that comes through - he wants us to experience the magic, from scene changes to choreography. So eventually it feels like you are in the best seat in the house. And that lasts long enough to be genuinely moved by these stories that refuse to be anything other than optimistic about humanity.

COME FROM AWAY is a true story of the sleepy town, Gander in Newfoudland (a Canadian island). They get a big shake-up when told to accommodate up to seven thousand passengers stranded on 9/11 as all flights cease in US airspace. What occurs is the joy of humanity when the town opens it's heart and welcomes all in this uplifting musical full of hope.

The stunning 12 cast members take on all roles, telling stories from the view-points of the passengers and the town folks, all done in a simple but very creative way. It looked at all aspects of the human condition, from politics to religion, and everything else that makes this crazy world go round.

Took me a while to clinch onto the musical style, but once the characters had me, I was all in. An absolute heart warmer that shows what we are capable of in trying times...

Perhaps the most interesting thing about this play (aside from its Cinderella backstory, rags to riches) is the way it keeps transforming itself while you watch. At first, the viewer is actually shocked that such a horrific piece of history can suddenly become ENTERTAINING and INSPIRING. Then the subtext in the script about race, gender, community catch your eye, all at once. Soon you are wondering silently to yourself if there really is a place like Gander (yes) and if all Canadians are like that (many are, but not all). Then, before you have a chance to get bored, the gritty narrative, the backstory, pops up and grabs your attention; and wherever you are, whatever you are doing, you give a silent thanks for being able to watch history without actually BEING history. And then it is over. Cue the well deserved applause. ((Designated "IMDb Top Reviewer." Please check out my list "167+ Nearly-Perfect Movies (with the occasional Anime or TV miniseries) you can/should see again and again (1932 to the present))

Full of heart, it's just pure joy watching this show. The Newfie music has your foot tapping then you get chocked up by beautiful character moments. This show deserves every accolade you've heard.