Rediscovered Classic - The Sound of Music

You don't really need me to tell you the story - nuns, Nazis, singing weans, it's all in there. But fear not, this re-release is no sing-a-long-a-travesty. It's a proper cinema outing for a film that, with so much television play and so much familiarity, was in danger of becoming a parody of itself. That's why it's very easy to forget just how good The Sound of Music is. Taking the time to actually watch it from beginning to end, you're quickly reminded why it's such a favourite and why Robert Wise really was one of the greats. The first half in particular is a thing of beauty: well structured, slyly written, fluently directed and acted with charm and commitment, topped off by song after song that have entered the public consciousness as much as any 20th century standard. Moreover, it's absolutely breathtaking on the big screen, in a stunning digital release and restored six-track audio. Do yourself a favour, leave all your prejudices at home and go and see The Sound of Music on the big screen - if you don't love this, you don't love cinema. [Paul Greenwood]