Bob Fosse Movies List

The legendary choreographer and director Bob Fosse has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema with his distinctive style characterized by crisp movements, jazz hands, and an intense exploration of human sexuality and ego. If you are an admirer of Fosse's unique storytelling or a newcomer intrigued by his work, here's a curated list of Bob Fosse movies that you should definitely watch.

All That Jazz (1979)

All That Jazz is arguably one of Fosse's most personal films. This semi-autobiographical masterpiece delves into the life of Joe Gideon, a character heavily based on Fosse himself. The film blends reality with fantasy, offering a profound look into the psyche of a workaholic director.

• Plot: Joe Gideon, played by Roy Scheider, is directing a Broadway show while simultaneously editing his next movie, all while managing his deteriorating health and relationships. The story includes surreal sequences where he converses with the Angel of Death.

• Musical Numbers: The iconic "There'll Be Some Changes Made" and the unforgettable "Bye Bye Life" are testament to Fosse's choreographic genius.

• Achievements: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score, and was nominated for Best Picture.

<p class="pro-note">😊 Pro Tip: Don't miss the extended director's cut, which offers additional insights into Fosse's creative process.</p>

Cabaret (1972)

Cabaret is perhaps Fosse's most widely recognized work, introducing audiences to the world of the Kit Kat Club in 1931 Berlin. Here's what makes it a must-watch:

• Setting: Set during the twilight years of Weimar Germany, it captures the tension between decadence and the rise of fascism.

• Notable Scene: Sally Bowles (Liza Minnelli) singing "Life is a Cabaret" is one of the most memorable scenes in cinema, showcasing Fosse’s distinctive choreography.

• Awards: Eight Academy Awards, including Best Director for Fosse, Best Actress for Minnelli, and Best Supporting Actor for Joel Grey.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Pro Tip: Watch the original film and then the musical for a fascinating comparison of stage versus screen.</p>

Sweet Charity (1969)

Based on the play Sweet Charity by Neil Simon, this film adaptation captures the essence of Fosse's theatrical style while presenting an uplifting story:

• Storyline: Follows Charity Hope Valentine (Shirley MacLaine), a perpetually optimistic taxi dancer in New York City, as she tries to find true love amidst a series of misadventures.

• Choreography: Features standout numbers like "Hey, Big Spender" and "If My Friends Could See Me Now," where Fosse's iconic style shines.

• Cameos: Watch out for cameos by notable actors like Bob Fosse himself and his then-wife, dancer Gwen Verdon.

Lenny (1974)

A stark departure from the glitz of musicals, Lenny showcases Fosse's ability to handle deep, character-driven drama:

• Biographical: Dustin Hoffman plays Lenny Bruce, the controversial stand-up comedian known for his dark humor and social commentary.

• Style: The film employs a non-linear narrative structure and black-and-white cinematography, evoking the gritty atmosphere of Bruce's life.

• Recognition: Nominated for six Oscars, including Best Picture, with Hoffman winning Best Actor.

The Little Prince (1974)

While not universally acclaimed, The Little Prince offers a unique interpretation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's beloved book:

• Cast: Features Gene Wilder, Bob Fosse himself, and Donna McKechnie, blending puppetry, song, and dance.

• Musical Score: Fosse's choreography elevates the film, particularly in numbers like "Be a Rock" performed by Wilder.

• Critical Reception: The film received mixed reviews but is a fascinating study of Fosse's versatility.

Star 80 (1983)

Star 80 delves into the dark side of show business, based on the true story of Dorothy Stratten:

• Plot: The story of Playboy Playmate Dorothy Stratten's tragic rise and fall, showcasing Fosse's darker narrative themes.

• Acting: Eric Roberts' performance as the obsessive boyfriend Paul Snider earned critical acclaim.

• Tone: Unlike the usual flair of Fosse's musicals, this film is more of a gritty drama with a focus on character development over dance.

Advancements & Influences

Bob Fosse's movies have not only inspired countless dance choreographers and filmmakers but have also influenced:

• Dance: His signature choreography is now ingrained in dance culture, influencing everything from pop music videos to contemporary choreography.

• Film: Fosse's use of cinéma vérité, close-ups, and exploration of personal and social themes has left a lasting impact on film storytelling.

Practical Usage of Fosse's Techniques:

• For Choreographers: Incorporate Fosse's sharp movements and intricate body isolations for a distinct style.

  • Example: Teach dancers the "hat" dance from Sweet Charity to understand Fosse's hand gestures and body angles.

  • Tip: Watch interviews with Fosse or his documentaries to understand how he combined his life experiences with his choreography.

• For Filmmakers: Emulate Fosse's narrative style by focusing on intimate character development and using split-screen or other creative editing techniques.

  • Example: In a biopic, use montages with voiceover to show the inner turmoil of the protagonist, as seen in All That Jazz.

  • Advanced Technique: Integrate dance into the narrative, not just as a performance element but as a way to convey character emotion and story progression.

<p class="pro-note">💃 Pro Tip: A deep dive into Fosse's work requires an appreciation for his understanding of the body as an expressive tool.</p>

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overuse of Jazz Hands: While iconic, overuse can dilute Fosse’s style. Ensure each movement has purpose.

• Ignoring Emotional Underpinnings: Fosse's work is as much about what's happening internally as it is about the physicality.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Music Selection: Choose music that allows for the necessary dynamic range to capture Fosse's complex emotional landscapes.

• Cast Chemistry: Fosse often worked with the same actors; ensure your cast has the right dynamic to embody his characters' relationships.

Wrapping Up

Bob Fosse's legacy in film is a testament to his ability to capture the complexity of human life through movement and music. From his autobiographical exploration in All That Jazz to the dark, intense narrative of Star 80, Fosse's movies continue to resonate with those who appreciate the art of dance and storytelling. As you dive into these works, you'll find that Fosse's influence extends far beyond the screen, impacting the way stories are told in the realm of musical theater and beyond.

Now, explore more tutorials on Fosse's choreography or read about the artists he inspired, and let his dynamic approach to filmmaking and dance inspire your creative projects.

<p class="pro-note">🌟 Pro Tip: When studying Fosse, remember that his choreography is not just about the dance but the storytelling through the body.</p>

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What inspired Bob Fosse to create such distinctive choreography?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Bob Fosse drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including his own life experiences, his relationships, and his keen observation of human behavior. His choreography often reflected the inner world of his characters, infused with a sense of irony, seduction, and sometimes darkness.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How did Bob Fosse's personal life influence his movies?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Fosse’s films like All That Jazz and Star 80 are heavily influenced by his personal life, exploring themes of workaholism, self-destruction, and the complexities of love and fame. His relationships with actresses and dancers like Gwen Verdon and his struggles with health also played significant roles in his storytelling.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Where can I see Bob Fosse's original choreography?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can view Bob Fosse's original choreography in films like Cabaret and Sweet Charity. Additionally, documentaries and biographies often showcase archival footage of his work, and Broadway revivals of his shows can also provide insight into his choreographic genius.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Did Bob Fosse ever win an Oscar for Best Director?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, Bob Fosse won an Oscar for Best Director for Cabaret in 1972, sharing the award with co-director Hal Prince.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>