Introduction

Musicals are one of the oldest forms of genre in the books. Originally stemming from Vaudeville, which consisted of a few acts, such as singing, dancing, acting and juggling as a form of entertainment for the working class. Eventually people got bored with this very saming show and wanted more depth and storylines. So, musicals were written. They always have a serious storyline behind the uplifting songs and bitter sweet romances. I plan to look at all forms of musical films from the dark and gruesome 'Sweeney Todd' to the light and breezey 'State Fair', looking closely at the musical film genre and what conventions run throughout.