Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage?
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Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage?
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage? is a documentary that features highlights from the Tony Award winner's life. Images and references include bullying, death, divorce, gynecological office visits for in vitro fertilization injections, and a mass shooting at a synagogue. Swear words include "ass," "damn," and "hell." The film emphasizes the positive theme of pursuing one's dreams.
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What's the Story?
The question in the film title IDINA MENZEL: WHICH WAY TO THE STAGE? is a nod to the first line spoken by the actor and singer from her breakthrough role in the play Rent. In the documentary, Menzel reflects on a personal and professional journey that includes gigs as a bar mitzvah and wedding singer, co-parenting mom, the voice of Elsa who sings "Let It Go" in the animated feature Frozen, and a U.S. concert tour that wraps up in Madison Square Garden, the native New Yorker's hometown arena.
Is It Any Good?
Bravo to this inspiring and intimate backstage story about Idina Menzel, who was born to be a star. In the documentary Idina Menzel: Which Way to the Stage?, her dad Stuart believes that when his daughter "came out the womb" she was "going to be famous." And as a toddler, Menzel "always sang," says her mom Helene. "When I was a little girl, I loved musical theater," remembers Menzel. "I did listen to cast albums when I was a little kid, and my parents did bring me to shows. That's all part of me."
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the perseverance of Idina Menzel. How does she also demonstrate communication and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
How would you describe Menzel's path to becoming a singer and actor? What do you think about her as a performing artist?
Menzel speaks about growing up in a community where people who don't fit in may be bullied by others. What do you think about this kind of behavior? What would you do in this situation?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 9, 2022
- Cast: Idina Menzel, Josh Groban, Aaron Lohr
- Director: Anne McCabe
- Studio: Disney+
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Arts and Dance, Great Girl Role Models, Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Communication, Perseverance, Teamwork
- Run time: 94 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: January 17, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
-
Frozen
Wintry Disney musical is fabulous celebration of sisterhood.
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Frozen 2
Slightly darker sequel charms with catchy songs, messages.
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Cinderella (2021)
Musical fairy tale about following dreams has risqué jokes.
-
Rent
Vibrant musical-based movie has sex, drugs, cursing.
For kids who love music
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