With theatres across the world out of action for over a year, writer, director and composer Mike Petrone didn’t want to let his ambitious new stage play sit in the wings – and rightly so. Instead, he made it into a film. As Caesar the Musical: The Movie is somewhat of a long name, Petrone sensibly stuck with the title Caesar the Musical. Although in the format of a film, the performance maintains that of live production by foregrounding the acting and singing rather than utilising some of the creative freedoms cinema might have to offer. I think this keeps the musical true to its origins and, while it may feel odd to the average movie watcher, is perfectly effective.
From the opening few bars, it’s clear we’re in for a musical treat. Fanfares and dramatic percussion welcomes us in with the promise of enjoying a full orchestral score by the talented Mike Petrone. Petrone certainly knows how to keep an audience engaged through the medium of music; his songs have light and shade, utilising a broad range of instruments, styles and rhythms. This gives each number a particularly memorable element that you will find yourself humming all day.
As it is clear, there is no question about the musical success of Caesar the Musical, but the film also succeeds in telling the story very well. It’s often difficult to balance the plot of the musical with the actual music, and I find in some musicals the action is lost in the songs. However, in this case, we are introduced to each character in a clear but interesting way. This helps with understanding the plot, rather than leaving viewers to draw on their sketchy memory of history. The story and the music are in perfect harmony, working together to deliver a thoroughly enjoyable experience.r
A wonderful cast of characters carry the show with their brilliant performances. William Clarence Marshall is a powerful force as the narrator, pulling the strands of the narrative together with his epic presence. Dan Folino captures the famous Roman general, Julius Caesar, with great strength but also sensitivity, showing two sides of the coin. Connor O’Brien is a strong companion to Folino as Mark Antony. Jayson Gage as Brutus pulls off the complex emotions evoked by the betrayal of Caesar with ease. Marc Moritz steals the show with his portrayal of Pompey, especially in the song ‘Pompey, That’s Me’; a fun, jazz infused number complimented by a small dance routine from Jason Gage and Ian Atwood as Cassius – one of my favourite songs. Steph Geber as Caesar’s mistress, Servilia, and Jill Tschetter as his wife, Calpurnia, create a compelling tension in the name of love. All the members of the cast work together well and the level of effort sustained throughout the whole project is evident.
Overall, Caesar the Musical is packed full of memorable songs, excellent performances and a brilliant story. This new and exciting musical that is definitely worth watching. Stream the songs now on YouTube music and Apple Music!
This was a most amazing and incredible review that captured my exact thoughts of Caesar the Musical. The songs absolutely tell the story in a captivating way. I studied in 8 th grade the story of Julius Caesar but never understood it until I saw this. The music is so brilliant and the songs get stuck in my head.
Kudos to the reviewer who put to words and captured the essence of what I felt too.