THE FANTASTICKS

Year: 2000
USA: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Cast: Joseph McIntyre, Joel Grey, Barnard Hughes, Jonathan Morris, Jean Louisa Kelly, Brad Sullivan, Teller
Director: Michael Ritchie
Country: USA
USA: 86 mins
USA Rated: PG for some bawdy carnival humor
USA Release Date: 22 September 2000 (Limited Release - Los Angeles and New York)

Synopsis

In THE FANTASTICKS two neighbouring fathers erect a wall between their houses, hoping their children will defy their orders and pursue the one thing most forbidden to them: each other. It's the perfect plan ... only in this case, the forces of resistance work a little too well.

The fragility, magic, chaos, idealism, rebelliousness and hilariously high hopes of first love have been crystallized in this favorite American musical. THE FANTASTICKS is a funny, mischievous and moving tale of lovers, carnivals, sword fights, magicians, comedians, romantic dreams, romantic delusions and the wisdom of letting true love follow its own course. For more than 40 years, since May 3, 1960, audiences have been showing up nightly to watch this fable unfold on the off-Broadway stage - drawn by the twists in the tale as the magician El Gallo is hired to intervene in young love and instead provides other-worldly temptation.

The motion picture version of THE FANTASTICKS features a whimsical, visually imaginative and fresh-faced new take from director Michael Ritchie. Starring Academy Award winner Joel Grey and Brad Sullivan (PRINCE OF TIDES) as the faux feuding fathers, the film also brings to the fore young stars Joe McIntyre formerly of New Kids on the Block and Jean Louisa Kelly (MR HOLLAND'S OPUS) as Matt and Luisa, the two passionate young lovers who are almost driven apart by the scheme to bring them together. Featuring the unforgettable score by Tom Jones and Harvey Schmidt.