Can-Can
Can-Can

Can-Can

1960Movie142 minEnglish

A Parisian nightclub owner known for her performances of the can-can attracts the ire of a self-righteous judge. He hatches a plot to photograph her in the act but ends up falling for her — much to the chagrin of her lawyer boyfriend.

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Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes33%
Google Users70%
Director: Walter LangGenres: Musical, Comedy, Romance

Plot Summary

In 19th-century Montmartre, Paris, cabaret ownerevoisier tries to keep his establishment, the 'Bal du Paradis,' open despite pressure from the righteous Judge Philippe Forestier, who aims to shut down the "immoral" establishment. Forestier is also the brother of the artist Paul, who is in love with one of the dancers, Lola. The situation escalates when the popular "Can-Can" dance is performed, leading to a trial that threatens to close down the entire venue and disrupt the lives of its colorful inhabitants.

Critical Reception

Can-Can was met with mixed reviews, with many critics praising its lavish production and musical numbers, particularly the performances of Shirley MacLaine and Maurice Chevalier. However, others found the plot to be flimsy and the humor dated. The film was also a box office disappointment, failing to recoup its significant production costs.

What Reviewers Say

  • Lavish sets and energetic musical numbers, especially the titular dance.
  • Shirley MacLaine and Maurice Chevalier provide charismatic performances.
  • The plot is considered weak and the film suffers from a lack of cohesive direction.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally appreciate the musical spectacle and the star power of Frank Sinatra and Shirley MacLaine. Some viewers enjoy the lighthearted, old-fashioned entertainment, while others find the story to be thin and predictable, noting that it doesn't hold up as well as other musicals from the era.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Original Song ('All for You') and Best Original Score.

Fun Fact

The film was the first production to be shot in Todd-AO widescreen for 70mm presentation and also had a magnetic soundtrack. However, its premiere engagement was in standard 35mm, which led to a lawsuit from Todd-AO.

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