The sound of music review

A Melody That Lingers: Why ‘The Sound of Music’ Still Stays With Us, 60 Years On

Introduction 

Not many movies have the same enchantment and staying power as The Sound of Music.

Originally launched in 1965 and directed by Robert Wise, this classic musical is still enchanting audiences even after fifty years with its majestic views, unforgettable melodies and a lovable plot. It’s based on the real-life story of the von Trapp family, but adapted by Rodgers and Hammerstein from their Broadway show The film is not just a classic — it’s a national treasure. If you haven't seen the Sound of Music,your life isn't complete Whether you've seen it once or a million tim, the Sound of Music is a movie that you must watch: at least once

Plot Summary

Located in Austria just before World War II, “The Sound of Music” narrates the tale of Maria, an enthusiastic and musically inclined postulant from a local abbey. She is assigned to serve as the governess for Captain von Trapp, a charming yet widowed father with seven children. In the end, Maria is able to make both the kids and their father happy again. As the family's bonds strengthen, the looming danger of Nazi occupation becomes increasingly apparent. The story masterfully intertwines historical tension, familial strife, and individual development.

What Worked

Julie Andrews is luminous as Maria, full of vitality and vocal brilliance. It’s a playful yet grounded performance, walking the line between the musical’s frolic and its emotional undertow. Christopher Plummer, playing Captain von Trapp, offers a nuanced, yet very effective, performance that becomes increasingly gentle as the film advances.

The use of cinematography is stunning: Filmed on location in Salzburg, Austria, the film’s sweeping hills and grand architecture bestow it with visual magic in almost every scene. Maria spinning in the mountains is one of a handful of the most iconic opening scenes in movie history.

The soundtrack of the movie is really what makes it what it is.The songs crafted by Rodgers and Hammerstein, such as “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss,” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain,” are not only skillfully composed but are also intricately woven into the narrative. Director Robert Wise effectively manages the pacing, allowing emotional moments to resonate without unnecessarily extending the film’s duration.

What Didn’t Work 

If there’s a criticism to be made, it’s that the film is a bit long (almost 3 hours) for people used to its more recent formula. Particularly in the second act, some scenes could have been tightened without sacrificing their emotional impact. Also, while the romance of Maria and the Captain is very sweet, it blossoms awfully quickly and could have used a bit more time to develop.

But these are picky complaints in a movie that provides so much heart and artistry.

Final Say 

If nothing else, The Sound of Music is a tutorial in musical storytelling, with performances to match, songs untempered by the calendar and images begging to be enlarged. Even after all these years, it’s still relevant and culturally significant.

Rating: 9.5/10

My take

Longtime fan or first-time watcher, you’ll never go wrong with The Sound of Music on your to-watch list. Its themes of love, bravery and finding joy in the simple pleasures of life still resonate today. Have you seen it lately — or are you going to? Tell us your favorite moment or which song you like best in the comments section! 🎶👇