Gypsy (1993)

Number Rolled: 3

Movie Name/Year: Gypsy (1993)

Genre: Music & Musical

Length: 142 minutes

Rating: NR

Director: Emile Ardolino

Writer: Arthur Laurents, Gypsy Rose Lee

Actors: Bette Midler, Peter Riegert, Cynthia Gibb, Edward Asner, Christine Ebersole, Michael Jeter, Andrea Martin, Linda Hart, Anna McNeely, Jennifer Rae Beck, Jeffrey Broadhurst, Tony Shalhoub, Rachel Sweet

I have adored this movie since I saw it when I was a kid. I used to sit around and watch it with my mother all the time. I found myself relating to Louise – except for the whole stripping thing. A lot of young girls might find themselves reflected in the always secondary Louise who perpetually plays second fiddle to a more talented sister. Add to that a family who has a very specific idea of where she should be in her life – regardless of what she wants. She is unheard and invisible.

The story is made more interesting by the fact that it is based on the true story of Gypsy Rose Lee and is in fact adapted from her memoirs – though it’s mostly from the viewpoint of her fame-blinded mother.

I couldn’t believe how much the music stuck with me. It’s been years since I’ve see it and I still remember every word of the songs. Bette Midler and Cynthia Gibb are out of this world in their roles. Definitely a movie I will eventually watch with my kids.

Overall Opinion – 5/5