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The Greatest Showman Challenges Modern Tolerance…But Doesn’t Go Far Enough

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Annie Jones, who suffered from hypertrichosis. (Photo credit: Wikipedia ) The Greatest Showman . The movie tells the story of P.T. Barnum , the son of a poor tailor who becomes one of the leading entertainers in the world. The theme [spoiler alert] is about the folly of trying to find personal value in acceptance and love from society. The film focuses on various “outcasts” who feel rejected by broader culture (Barnum, circus performers , etc.), but eventually find a deeper kind of meaning in close, personal relationships. Since he grew up poor, and as an outsider, Barnum desperately sought societal applause. Even after marrying his sweetheart, having two beautiful daughters, building a successful show, buying an expensive home, and getting invited to the “important” social events, Barnum still felt the need to prove himself to the world. His wife warns him about the futility of such an endeavor, but he persists nonetheless. And it nearly cost him his marriage and career. A...