Watch Liza With a Z
- 1972
- 52 min
-
8.4 (965)
Liza with a Z is a 1972 musical film directed by Bob Fosse and starring the legendary Liza Minnelli. The movie is a recording of Minnelli's live concert at the Lyceum Theatre in London in 1972, and features her performing numerous songs from her career, including some from the famous Broadway musical "Cabaret." The concert starts off with the song "Yes" from the musical "Cabaret," and Minnelli's energy and charisma immediately capture the audience's attention. She is backed by a team of dancers who help to bring the songs to life with their synchronized movements and choreography. The stage is adorned with elaborate sets and costumes, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere that keeps the audience engaged throughout the entire performance.
Throughout the concert, Minnelli sings a variety of songs that span different genres and moods. She sings upbeat and energetic songs like "Ring Them Bells" and "God Bless the Child," and more melancholy and emotional songs like "I Can See Clearly Now" and "Bye Bye Blackbird." Her incredible vocal range and dynamic performance style make every song feel fresh and exciting.
Tony Bennett also makes an appearance in the movie, joining Minnelli on stage for a duet of the song "Stormy Weather." The two performers share a playful and enjoyable chemistry on stage, and their combined talents make for a truly special performance. Marisa Berenson also makes a brief appearance in the film, performing as one of Minnelli's backup dancers.
The film's director, Bob Fosse, is also a renowned choreographer, and he infuses the concert with his signature style of dance. The dancers move with precision and grace, often contorting their bodies into unusual positions and executing complex dance routines with ease. Fosse's unique choreography adds another layer of depth and excitement to the concert, and makes it a truly memorable viewing experience.
One aspect of the concert that stands out is Minnelli's interactions with the audience. She frequently talks to the crowd between songs, sharing stories and anecdotes about her life and career. She also engages in playful banter with her backup dancers, making the concert feel like a more intimate and casual affair. These moments of connection help to build a rapport between Minnelli and the audience, and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes the concert feel like a true celebration of music and performance.
Overall, Liza with a Z is a must-see film for fans of musicals, dancing, and performance art. Minnelli's magnetic personality and incredible talent make her a joy to watch on stage, and the concert's impressive sets, costumes, and choreography make it a visual feast for the eyes. The movie serves as a perfect tribute to Minnelli's talent and legacy, and stands as a testament to the power of live performance.
Liza With a Z is a 1972 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.4.