This is a musical with a hard edge and harder characters. Its songs aren't the romantic love songs, but rather songs of anger and revenge. The plot, such as it is, makes us believe that there is no justice in the world. For this movie, this is true. Just give 'em the old razzle dazzle. It's all about fame and the public and the heroes are made in the press. Fame is about fifteen minutes at the most and then we go on to someone else. All the characters strut their outrageous stuff for us. The production numbers are terrific. Everything is done with a sneer and a wink. And it doesn't matter how many die; they are just fodder for the public. Renee Zelwegger as Roxie Hart is so vapid and yet so driven, she will step on anyone. Catherine Zeta Jones is stunning as the rival. And then there are all those women in prison who describe the offing of their various lovers. Some even die from time to time because they are not in the public eye. I was surprised to see Richard Gere. He does pretty well in his role as attorney tot he stars. He comes off quite well. He has the ability to do anything for a buck, but his loyalties are pretty ethereal. I don't know if this was a best picture but it certainly has a lot of energy and a rather sad message. Too true.
