In a recent interview, director Maria Friedman shared insights about her filmed adaptation of the acclaimed musical “Merrily We Roll Along.” Initially envisioned as a full location shoot, financial constraints led to a unique approach that focuses on emotional depth rather than elaborate settings. The film features a star-studded cast, including Jonathan Groff, Daniel Radcliffe, and Lindsay Mendez. It captures the essence of the Broadway revival, recorded live at the Hudson Theatre.
Upcoming Release Details
El-Balad reports that this new version will be screened in theaters nationwide from December 4 to 18, 2023, through Fathom Entertainment. This shows a significant milestone for Sondheim enthusiasts, capturing the show during its final weeks before closing on July 7, 2024.
Production Insights
Friedman, who directed both the stage revival and the filmed version, explained her decision to shoot the film shortly before the live show’s conclusion. “These people had given us two years of their life already,” she emphasized. The production quickly secured a $12 million investment, a testament to the show’s earlier success.
Filming Process
- The production team storyboarded the entire shoot for two weeks.
- Filming occurred over three days with four to five cameras in use.
- Friedman aimed for emotional clarity, utilizing close-ups to highlight the actors’ performances.
Friedman noted that the initial wide shots lacked energy and decided to focus on characters’ emotional journeys. The storyline, which unfolds across two decades, spans locations from Los Angeles to New York. To guide viewers, the film incorporates on-screen graphics showcasing time and place.
Emphasizing Character Depth
One of the film’s highlights includes Daniel Radcliffe’s rendition of “Franklin Shepard, Inc.” Friedman directed the audience’s attention to both Radcliffe’s performance and Groff’s reactions, enhancing the duet’s emotional impact.
Previously, “Merrily We Roll Along” was considered a Broadway misfire, closing after just 16 performances in its 1981 debut. However, Friedman’s revival has breathed new life into the musical, which she has cherished since her early involvement in a UK production.
A Tribute to Sondheim
Friedman expressed her dedication to Sondheim’s legacy, sharing his vision for musicals to be accessible worldwide. She reflected on a recent screening in Los Angeles that evoked laughter and tears from the audience, honoring the late composer’s impact on the world of theater.
Her heartfelt approach in capturing the essence of “Merrily We Roll Along” aims to engage audiences with the performers’ nuanced expressions, a detail that may not be as evident in a theater setting. The filming and upcoming release of this adaptation promise to make Sondheim’s beloved musical accessible to even broader audiences.
