February 13th, 2022 marked the 50th anniversary of the release of Bob Fosse’s Cabaret in 1972. Based on the stage musical of the same name, Cabaret follows English academic, Brian (Michael York), as he becomes involved with Sally Bowles (Liza Minelli), an American cabaret performer in early 1930s Berlin, while the presence of the Nazi Party steadily starts to grow throughout the film. At the 45th Academy Awards, Cabaret won a total of eight Oscars, including Best Director for Bob Fosse, Liza Minelli for Best Actress, and Joel Grey for Best Supporting Actor. The film is remembered for its unique blend of energetic musical numbers with darker themes like fascism and corruption.
Musical for People Who Hate Musicals
One of the most distinct changes made from the Broadway musical was the decision for all the musical numbers to be diegetic. Instead of traditional musical films where characters can burst into song at any moment, all of the musical numbers were performed at the cabaret club by either Sally or the Master of Ceremonies (with the exception of Tomorrow Belongs To Me). Despite the glitz and glamor of Cabaret, these grounded performances make the film adaptation more approachable for audiences who don’t like the suspension of disbelief in musicals. In a 2002 article with the Guardian, David Benedict frankly summed up this idea, stating, “Cabaret is the musical for people who hate them.” This decision was optimal for the increasingly cynical filmgoers of the 1970s who had grown tired of the big budget movie musical, and has helped the film age beautifully for modern audiences.
Lasting Impact on LGBTQ Community
Cabaret has also had a lasting impact on queer audiences. Its frank depiction of subjects like bisexuality, polyamory, and sexual ambiguity was arguably transgressive at the time of the film’s release and have generally aged positively with audiences. Furthermore, Liza Minelli’s interpretation of Sally Bowles has cemented her as a gay icon. Liza Minelli brought a distinct look to the character, with a Louise-Brooks style haircut, dramatic eye makeup, and long manicured nails. This iconic image paired with fluid movements, memorable lines, and powerhouse vocals result in a bold and theatrical performance beloved by queer audiences.
In the fifty years since Cabaret’s release, it has only grown in popularity. Despite being bright and boisterous, the film was bold in its portrayal of complex subjects and dark subject matter. Cabaret is both a classic and unconventional musical.
Check out our list of more modern musicals
Get your copy of the Cabaret Blu-ray DVD by clicking here.
Get your copy of the iconic soundtrack Cabaret: Original Soundtrack Recording by clicking here.