South Pacific (DVD, 2001)

South Pacific was a musical that I never really liked until I saw this filmed production on television. The acting is excellent. The cast is formidable and the story takes on a much more serious tone in the hands of director Richard Pearce. The song, Happy Talk, is omitted from this production, which suited me fine, as that song is an irritation. The order of the songs is changed, but works better with this approach to the story of American sailors on a South Seas island during World War II. Unlike the 1958 film version of the Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, most of the actors in this production sing for themselves. Glenn Close, one of the film's producers, stars as Nellie Forbush and brings a depth to the charcter that is not seen in most productions. Harry Connick, Jr. is most watchable as the handsome and conflicted Lt. Cable. Worth a look.

I wanted to see for myself how this version of the movie compared to the 1958 one with Mitzi Gaynor, which was very enjoyable. I was thoroughly pleased with the new movie which definitely does not deserve the harsh criticisms I have read. Everyone's performance was wonderful (in my opinion). I'm sure most people are aware of the talent of Harry Connick, Jr. however, many may not have known of the singing talent of Glenn Close. The gentleman who played "Emile", Rade Serbedzija, was completely unknown to me, but, not any longer! I thought he was fantastic in the role and made the character far more believable, because he IS NOT an opera singer, but a man who 'looked the part' of a Plantation owner and who just happens to have a very pleasant singing voice! The other area of harsh criticism I found unfair was in reference to the difference in the age of Glenn Close and Mitzi Gaynor, which in reality is true, however, Glenn Close did not try to act like a '20 something' nurse, and in all honesty, and with due respect to James Michener's story, I found it much more appealing to have her character be closer in age to "Emile" and I do not believe it hurts the storyline one bit. I have since bought 3 more copies of the movie and given them to friends, all of whom have raved about it. Thank you.

this remake of the classic musical was excellent. it was well done and true to the story of love, war, and racial prejudice. However, they took out the song Happy Talk..which i really like and i found confusing.

This is my favorite Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical. It has great music and a great story. I find this telling of the musical even better than the original movie made in 1957. All the actors, especially Glenn Close did a fantastic job. Imagine! All the actors did their own singing in this version!

This version of South Pacific is very well put together. They didn't try to copy the original but kept true to the story and presented a wonderful dramatic movie complete with all the original songs and some wonderful voices. This version of South Pacific is a treat to watch. Complete entertainment! Enjoy!