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.

We saw the show on Broadway twice - in back to back weeks. It may be the most relevant, important show you'll ever see. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll laugh some more and this show will give you hope for humanity in these dark times.

Come from Away is one of my favorite Broadway shows and should have beat out Dear Evan Hanson for the majority of the Tony awards in their award year (not because Hansen is bad, but because Come From Away is Soooooo good). Come From Away is very carefully written, directly and constructed musical about one of the most memorable sad days in many people's lives today (9/11), but provides a different optimistic and less dark lens for remembering the day and next few days after. And it's a great vehicle for young people to learn about 9/11 as well.

The cast was fabulous, the direction was great, the music is catchy, emotional, and excellently pays homage to the setting of this story. It's only about 90-100 minutes long and without an intermission. And that decision really is perfect for this particular story which they're telling. The fact that the cast is minimal and every cast member plays at least one Newfoundlander and one visitor is a very poignant and clever directing decision. The script is quickly paced for a musical and most of the songs keep moving the narrative forward. Overall the piece effectively fits lots of interesting actual stories into one big story in a heartwarming way. Everyone with AppleTV should feel exhilarating and excited for the chance to watch this for such a small cost, if any. Do yourself a favor and see the movie and the musical when it's in your area.

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.