Delivering the film Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles to the screen documentary style makes the story behind the musical play “Fiddler on the Roof” a meaningful experience. It conveys a statement with which every ethnic group can relate to. Nicely produced, directed and stated by those in the business of bringing important productions to the stage and screen, and persons directed related to Fiddler on the Roof, its intrinsic and insightful importance.
The film talks about the origin of “Fiddler on the Roof” one of the most beloved musicals that ever graced a Broadway stage. But, did you know how and why the musical play arrived in New York City and then throughout America? With the help of those that were a part of it and its perpetuation the storyline, the documentary brings an understanding, significance and reasons for the struggle to get their message across with “Fiddler on the Roof” in a very meaningful and entertaining way.
Some of those that add their feelings, provide thoughts and information during the film include Joel Grey an American actor, singer, dancer, and director known for “Cabaret”, Composer and Oscar, Grammy, Tony awards and Pulitzer Prize winner Stephen Sondheim, Broadway and film star Danny Burstein, Josh Mostel film and stage star and son of Zero Mostel, Film, TV and stage actress Fran Lebowitz, Film and theatre star Topol, Conductor and violinist Itzhak Perlman and many more.
Included in the documentary are many archive film clips and photos that prompted scenes and songs of the stage and screen musicals of “Fiddler on the Roof”. They add the history behind the aforementioned, the tie-in with painter Marc Chagall’s paintings, shots of villages that instilled inspiration, script writers developing the characters, early music pages, photos showing what prompted songs like “Matchmaker” and “If I Were a Rich Man”, popularization of the dancing numbers, shots of family gatherings and so much more.
Final Words: I like the film for the quality and genuine reasons for it. Especially since it reminds me of my roots and heritage, and their struggles to build a home in America while helping others to do so. Watching the film I could embrace the meanings of dialogue and lyrics, feel the power of family and social development within. It transcends the sovereignty of nations that we are created equal and can work together as a country of all the people.
The film has been rated PG-13 for some thematic elements/disturbing images. The film opens September 6th at local theaters.
FINAL ANALYSIS: A very sensitive and touching documentary that should captivate all Americans. (4 out of 5 Stars)
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Michale Bernardi, Jerry Bock, Danny Burstein, Ted Chapin, Harvey Fierstein, Joel Grey, Josh Mostel, Itzhak Perlman, Stephen Sondheim, Topol
Directed and co-written by: Max Lewkowicz
Genre: Documentary
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some thematic elements/disturbing images
Running Time: 1 hr. 32 min.
Opening Date: September 6, 2019
Distributed by: Roadside Attractions
Released in: Standard, Color
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
