5 reasons to watch The Sound of Music in 2018

Good news for those who applauded and cheered at the end of Keala Settle's 'This is Me' in The Greatest Showman, or to those that did the jive to celebrate Grease returning to the big screen in April for its 40th Anniversary. That's because The Sound of Music returns to Cineworld cinemas on 9th July.

For those of you who have somehow managed to miss this film in the 52 (yes, 52…) years since its original release, it focuses on Maria (Julie Andrews), a free-spirited nun who is governess to the seven children of Captain Von Trapp. Forming new clothing from curtains and tapping in to their musical talents, Maria soon puts an end to their disciplined routine whilst also winning the hearts of the Von Trapp family.

A few Do-Re-Mis later and not only is this Academy Award-winning film an all-time classic, it is also the third highest grossing movie of all time (adjusted for inflation) behind Star Wars and Gone with the Wind. So why should you go to see The Sound of Music on the big screen at your local Cineworld? Let us explain a few of our favourite things...

1. How do you solve a problem like Maria?…

Maria is an optimist who loves to sing, seemingly always arrives late and who always stands up for herself – qualities many of us can recognise in ourselves. However, as much as she tries, she can't change or be changed. So, how do you solve a problem like Maria? Like the bearded Lettie Lutz in The Greatest Showman, why should she change? This is Maria. Charming and heart-warming, her unapologetic presence will light up your cinema screen.

2. The sound of music…

There's something very special about the Rodgers and Hammerstein soundtrack that radiates warmth and joyous energy; a creation from the golden-age of the theatrical musical. Found yourself tapping away to the recent re-releases of fan favourites such as Grease, Mamma Mia and The Greatest Showman? Then The Sound of Music will definitely be up your street. All together now: "the hills are alive…"

3. That fuzzy feeling…

Like all great musicals, The Sound of Music has a little sprinkle of magic. It's not just one thing – it's Robert Wise's direction, it's the chemistry between Andrews and Plummer, the location and setting, the sound track… and so much more. But it's another secret ingredient that gives the film its evergreen magic: love. The love between family, music, freedom, people and that fuzzy feeling we all get in response to "doe, a deer", with Andrews working her magic spell.

4. It has something for everyone…

From the moment Maria runs through the Salzburg mountains, arms outstretched declaring that "the hills are alive with the sound of music…", audiences immediately fell in love. On its release, The Sound of Music broke box-office records in 29 countries and enjoyed a theatrical run which lasted over four and a half year. It was also was the first film to gross over $100m. The appeal of the Sound of Music is that it has a little bit of everything: fairy-tale romance, thrills, love and even a touch of historical drama.

5. The chemistry between the cast…

Andrews' performance echoes something of the charm of her legendary performance in Disney's 1964 masterpiece Mary Poppins. In fact, Julie Andrews almost turned down the role as Maria as she felt it was too close to the famous nanny. Indeed, it's now difficult to contemplate any other actress playing the part of Maria with her comedic timing and her four-octave range in 'Do-Re-Mi'. Plummer also puts in a hugely memorable performance full of expression and depth, and his chemistry with Andrews lights up the screen. The Sound of Music is a timeless classic about the importance of accepting love when you are least expecting it. You'll cry, you'll laugh, and you'll be singing along to its melodies for days after.

Click here to book your tickets for The Sound of Music, opening on 9th July, and tweet us your favourite moments @Cineworld.