What is the film adaptation of Merrily We Roll Along?

It's a cinematic version of the hit Broadway revival of Stephen Sondheim's musical, filmed with the original cast and production.

Who won Tony Awards for Merrily We Roll Along?

Jonathan Groff won for Lead Actor and Daniel Radcliffe won for Featured Actor in a Musical.

Why was Merrily We Roll Along a flop originally?

Its unique concept of starting at the end and moving backward over 20 years was challenging for 1981 audiences.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Sondheim's 'Merrily' Film: A Cinematic Triumph

Sondheim's 'Merrily' Film: A Cinematic Triumph

5 Dec

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Summary

Filmed stage production captures intimate performances of Sondheim's 'Merrily We Roll Along'.
The musical, once a flop, is now celebrated for its unique backward-telling narrative.
Four Tony Awards recognized the acclaimed Broadway revival's stellar cast and production.

Sondheim's 'Merrily' Film: A Cinematic Triumph

Maria Friedman's exquisite film adaptation of Stephen Sondheim's 'Merrily We Roll Along' is now available in theaters, offering a unique cinematic experience for theater enthusiasts. Shot over three nights with the original Broadway cast and sets, this production emphasizes intimacy, placing the viewer directly on stage with the performers.

The musical, initially a notorious flop in 1981, has since become a celebrated work thanks to its sophisticated, backward-moving narrative. The story unfolds over 20 years, exploring the complex relationships of its three main characters in reverse chronological order, a structure that now resonates with audiences.

This acclaimed revival earned four Tony Awards, including Best Musical Revival. The filmed version preserves the fresh, illuminating performances of its cast, showcasing why 'Merrily We Roll Along' has achieved legendary status posthumously for Sondheim.