In a recent interview, Zendaya, who portrayed Anne Wheeler in the acclaimed musical film The Greatest Showman (2017), shared her unique experience of feeling like Spider-Man during the film's aerial sequences. The movie, which depicts the life of 19th-century showman P.T. Barnum, starred Hugh Jackman and has captivated audiences worldwide.
Zendaya's character, Anne, is a trapeze artist who falls in love with playwright Phillip Carlyle, played by Zac Efron. The film's musical numbers showcase their struggles and triumphs, with breathtaking aerial performances that echo the superhero feats of Tom Holland's Spider-Man.
Reflecting on her experience, Zendaya noted, "In this movie, I became my own version of Spider-Man. I was able to swing through the air, so I no longer envy Tom and his harness or suit. I completely understand what it feels like!" This sentiment highlights the thrill and challenge she faced while performing the aerial stunts, which were new to her as she had no prior gymnastics experience.
During the filming of The Greatest Showman, Zendaya had just wrapped up her role in Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017), making her transition into the role of Anne Wheeler seem almost serendipitous. She described her time on set as an opportunity to learn new skills and work alongside some of the best in the industry, stating, "I feel incredibly lucky to have had this chance."
Meanwhile, Zac Efron, who joined Zendaya for the interview, expressed his admiration for Holland's Spider-Man suit, calling it "the coolest suit ever." This playful banter between the two actors underscores the camaraderie and mutual respect they share, both on and off the screen.
As fans of The Greatest Showman may know, the film's journey to production began in 2009, with Hugh Jackman serving as a driving force behind the project. After hosting the 81st Academy Awards, Jackman was approached by a producer who was impressed by his musical introduction of the nominated films. This encounter sparked the long-anticipated project that would eventually come to fruition in 2017.
Jackman, already a Broadway star, was eager to take on the role of Barnum, a character who embodies the spirit of creativity and resilience. The title of the film is derived from Barnum's famous show, The Greatest Show on Earth, and it took seven years of development before the studio greenlit the production. One of the key factors that changed the studio's mind was the song "This Is Me," which became an anthem for self-acceptance and empowerment, resonating with audiences around the globe.
Written by the award-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, who previously won an Oscar for their work on La La Land (2016), "This Is Me" was crafted during a two-hour flight and ultimately became a pivotal moment in the film. Keala Settle, who plays Lettie Lutz, delivers a powerful performance of the song, capturing the essence of the film's message.
In preparation for his role, Jackman underwent two years of vocal training, which coincided with his filming of Logan (2017), where he reprised his iconic role as Wolverine. Jackman dedicated ten weeks to rehearsals before filming began, emphasizing the physical demands of the role: "It was more physically demanding than Logan. Twelve hours a day of dancing and singing. It was the best time of my life, but it wasn't easy."
Zendaya and Efron both performed their own singing in the film, with standout moments including their duet "Rewrite the Stars," which showcases their chemistry and vocal talents. The film's director, Michael Gracey, encouraged Zendaya to perform as many of her own stunts as possible, leading her to undergo extensive training in aerial acrobatics.
Zendaya's commitment to her role involved months of preparation to build her strength and confidence. The heights of the set posed a significant challenge, as there were no safety nets, pushing her to confront her fears. "At first, it was tough to get the rhythm right, and we had our fair share of mishaps, but with practice, we managed to create some beautiful scenes," she recalled.
Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick played a crucial role in bringing the characters to life. She created over 500 costumes that reflected the personalities and narratives of the characters. For Zendaya's Anne, Mirojnick utilized vibrant colors and Swarovski crystals to enhance her on-screen presence. The green dress Zendaya wears when meeting Phillip's parents is from Gucci's 2016-17 autumn/winter collection, showcasing the film's attention to detail.
Set against the backdrop of 19th-century America, The Greatest Showman tackles themes of acceptance and celebration of individuality, resonating with audiences around the world. The film's message is particularly poignant in today's society, where diversity and inclusion are more important than ever.
As the film continues to gain popularity, its cast members have gone on to achieve significant success in their careers. Efron has taken on a variety of roles, from playing a serial killer in Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019) to starring in the upcoming comedy Ricky Stanicky (2024). Zendaya, on the other hand, has become a household name, winning two consecutive Emmy Awards for her role in Euphoria and is set to appear in Spider-Man 4.
Rumors of Zendaya's engagement to Tom Holland have also added to her public persona, further elevating her status as a leading figure in Hollywood. With numerous projects on the horizon, both actors are poised for continued success.
The legacy of The Greatest Showman lives on, not only through its music and performances but also through the inspiration it provides to audiences everywhere. As Zendaya and Efron continue to shine in their respective careers, the impact of their work in this groundbreaking film will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
