SOUND OF MUSIC (1965)

While The Sound of Music has hauntingly beautiful scenery, toe tapping songs with fantastic lyrics (The Lonely Goatherd especially), and a cast that is hard to beat, it is not sensual for me. I think it is probably the musical format for the most part; I have a hard time feeling sensual when someone breaks into song, especially when the person they are singing to has just declared their love. I do like the way the Eleanor Parker character established the intimacy between the captain and Maria before they were ever aware of what was going on between them. I also like the scene in the garden house where the captain and Maria realize that they love each other (that is, I like it until they start singing.) It’s not the singing I’m opposed to; I love all the songs from this musical. It just turns me off sensually when they start singing. However, the Laendler dance is totally sensual for me. The intricate steps, the skill with which they interact, and the wonderful look at the end are just exquisite. This movie is totally enjoyable…just not sensual.