Growing up, my mom played musicals in our home pretty much nonstop. In fact, I almost feel as if it's a requirement to listen to the soundtrack of
Camelot while you clean on a Saturday morning. I actually really love it and have to give my mom credit for pretty much educating me on every great film out there. Now that I think about it, that's probably why I really am such a film buff.
One film that we watched three or four times a year was
My Fair Lady. I loved Professor Higgins, and maybe I was channeling my future profession as an English teacher, but I loved his passion for language. He was snarky, pushy, and a little grouchy. I loved him. Add Eliza into his refined-world mix and it was just priceless.
Now as a teacher, I get the opportunity to teach and recommend plays for my students. Although the actual play
Pygmalion, by George Bernard Shaw, does not match up to the musical exactly, it is still a genius of a play. When my students start to get down or feel as though all "classical" literature is a bummer, I point them towards a wonderful George Bernard Shaw or Oscar Wilde play and they brighten up. I like a good tragedy or gut-wrenching drama, but sometimes we really need to have a laugh and a smile. Thankfully, Shaw's
Pygmalion does just that, and the film
My Fair Lady fits the musical bill.
If you're unfamiliar with this glorious classic, let me include one that I love, "Without You." Honestly, I could hardly pick one because there are so many great songs. Here is one of my favorites.
* Fiction, to Film, to Fantastic Music Friday
is my own little weekly post. The premise is just to share my
favorite books made into film, with amazing soundtracks to boot.
There might even be times where it's just a great film and
soundtrack, or great book and film. Either way, join in if you would
like!
