Watch Carousel

Carousel is a movie musical from 1956 directed by Henry King and based on the Broadway musical of the same name by Rodgers and Hammerstein. The film revolves around the theme of love, loss, redemption, and hope, set in a creepy amusement park in Maine in the late 19th century. The film stars Gordon MacRae as Billy Bigelow, Shirley Jones as Julie Jordan, and Cameron Mitchell as Jigger Craigin.

The story of Carousel follows the lives of two young lovers, Billy and Julie, who navigate their way through the ups and downs of their tumultuous relationship. Billy, an unstable and restless carnival barker, falls for Julie, a hardworking and independent millworker. Their relationship begins to blossom, but their fiery romance is plagued by a series of obstacles that threaten to tear them apart. As Billy struggles to provide for Julie, he falls into a life of crime and impulsive decisions that eventually leads to tragedy.

One of the most memorable and beautiful scenes from the film is the opening number "You're a Queer One, Julie Jordan." This opening sets the tone for the rest of the film and introduces us to the character of Julie, played by Shirley Jones. Her performance in this scene is captivating, showcasing her natural singing ability and her charm as an actress. This number is accompanied by stunning visuals of a beautiful New England town and a bustling mill, transporting the audience to a bygone era.

The film boasts several memorable musical numbers, including the classic "June Is Bustin' Out All Over," sung by the female chorus, and "Soliloquy," a standout solo performance by Gordon MacRae, where he bares his soul to the audience and shares his innermost thoughts and fears. It's a powerful moment and a testament to MacRae's incredible talent as a singer and actor.

The supporting cast of characters is just as memorable as the leads, with Cameron Mitchell bringing a sinister energy to the role of Jigger Craigin, Billy's untrustworthy friend. He oozes with charm and a dangerous energy that both attracts and repels the audience. Barbara Ruick is also excellent in her role as Carrie Pipperidge, Julie's best friend, and a source of comedic relief throughout the film.

The film's lighting, cinematography, and set design are all exceptional, adding to the dreamlike atmosphere of the entire movie. The use of close-ups and intimate camera angles enhances the emotional intensity of several scenes, and the sweeping crane shots of the amusement park and surrounding Maine scenery add to the film's grandeur.

One of the highlights of the movie is the iconic dance sequence between Billy and Julie, set against the backdrop of the stars and endlessly spinning carousel. It's a romantic and enchanting moment that encapsulates the beauty and tragedy of their relationship.

The film's themes of love, loss, and redemption make it a timeless classic, with its story and characters resonating with audiences even decades after its release. It's a movie that tackles difficult and complex issues, like domestic violence and suicide, but ultimately leaves the audience with a message of hope and the power of redemption.

In conclusion, Carousel is a beautifully realized film musical, anchored by standout performances from its leads, memorable musical numbers, and stunning visuals. Its themes of love, loss, and redemption are universal, making it a classic that continues to inspire and move audiences to this day.

Carousel is a 1956 music movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.