Sweet Charity (1969). Photofest.
(Bob Fosse, US 1969, 149 min., DCP)
Once Upon a Time . . . at the Dryden. Known for films including Cabaret (1972), Lenny (1974), and All That Jazz (1979), Bob Fosse directs this kooky musical comedy-drama starring the always-endearing Shirley MacLaine. With notable costumes by Hollywood wardrobe veteran Edith Head and featuring one of the longest musical numbers in film history (“I’m a Brass Band” performed by MacLaine), Sweet Charity portrays Charity, a bar room dancer who is constantly searching for genuine love, but faces challenges due to her occupation and credulous personality. Originally a Broadway musical, also directed by Fosse, this stage play turned film was loosely based on Italian Neorealist auteur Federico Fellini’s Nights of Cabiria (1957).