Barbra: The Music...The Mem'ries...The Magic
By Renee Schonfeld,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Streisand concert for fans old and new; some cursing.
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Barbra: The Music...The Mem'ries...The Magic
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Based on 1 parent review
Very disappointing and significantly below past performances.
What's the Story?
BARBRA: THE MUSIC...THE MEM'RIES...THE MAGIC showcases Barbra Streisand at a concert in Miami, the last stop on a 13-city tour promoting her latest album. With the exception of one surprise musical guest, the program is all Barbra. Act I includes a song from each of her #1 Billboard hit albums ("No More Tears," "You Don't Bring Me Flowers"), songs from Broadway shows ("People," "Being Alive") as well as numbers from her movies ("The Way We Were," "Yentl"). In Act II, Barbra performs selections from 2016's Encore: Movie Partners Sing Broadway, closing with her iconic "Happy Days Are Here Again." Then, of course, the encores. She augments the vocals with significant photos and film clips, including brief moments with Encore: Movie Partners Hugh Jackman, Melissa McCarthy, Daisy Ridley, Chris Pine, Anne Hathaway, and other popular performers.
Is It Any Good?
Streisand proves that music, talent, and the ability to connect with her audience is ageless; six decades of one-of-a-kind excellence continues. And, she knows that audience. Barbra: The Music...The Mem'ries...The Magic is top-to-bottom Streisand at her most emotional and soaring. The filmed inclusion of some of the stars who appear with her on her latest duet album add spice to the show. A number in which Barbra performs alongside film of the late Anthony Newly is particularly affecting. The directing, editing, and production design are all top-notch. Barbra, who co-directs/co-writes, is obviously always in charge. She surrounds herself with fine musicians, dazzling backup singers, and a well-thought-out program. Satisfying and heart-warming for Streisand fans, this concert is available on streaming services, which is a delightful way to introduce her to new audiences, especially younger ones. An incomparable performer singing exceptional songs is able to cross generational borders. This movie proves it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the value of concert films such as Barbra: The Music...The Mem'ries...The Magic for wide audiences. Given the very few cities that host the events and the very high ticket prices, do you see such films as important for both artists and fans? In what ways does the movie help the artist, and in what ways do viewers benefit? Would you like to see more films like this one?
What does Barbra mean when she says, "Music transcends politics." Do you agree with her?
What do you think about the almost limitless variety of music that's available to audiences in the modern era? What are your favorite genres? Why is it beneficial for music fans, especially kids, to experience many different styles? Do you consider yourself "adventurous" and willing to listen to many genres?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: November 22, 2017
- Cast: Barbra Streisand
- Directors: Jim Gable , Barbra Streisand
- Inclusion Information: Female directors, Female actors
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Arts and Dance , History , Music and Sing-Along
- Run time: 106 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 18, 2023
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