No Laws. No Limits. One Rule. Never Fall In Love.

Starring: Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, John Leguizamo, Jim Broadbent, Richard Roxburgh, Garry McDonald, Jacek Koman, Matthew Whittet, Kerry Walker, Caroline O'Connor, Deobia Oparei

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"Use your talent to save him! Hurt him, Satine. Hurt him to save him. There is no other way. The show must go on. We are creatures of the underworld. We can't afford to love." – Harold Zidler

Why watch this? It's a great modern musical about the pangs of true love.

Plot Summary: In 1899 Paris, a young, idealistic English poet named Christian arrives in the Montmartre district and falls in love with Satine, the star courtesan of the famous Moulin Rouge nightclub. Satine, initially believing Christian to be a wealthy Duke who can fund her dreams of becoming a real actress, finds herself falling for the poet instead, leading to a secret, passionate romance. The lovers are forced to hide their affair from the jealous, possessive Duke who expects exclusive rights to Satine.

Dad's Preview: This lavish cinema production has been called postmodern, a term that describes the use of both fine art and pop culture within a classical, older setting. It takes some getting used to, but IS a lot of fun (as seen in A Knight's Tale (2001)). I love the infusion of lyrics from songs by Madonna, The Beatles, Elton John and, heck, even the band KISS. Kidman and McGregor both turn in stellar performances, and I have to mention two supporting actors for amazing work: John Leguizamo and Jim Broadbent. There are incredible sets, costumes and dance numbers. Magical moments are also achieved. This film was nominated for eight Oscars, winning two for Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design.

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer; Loew's Inc.