Sweet Charity (1969)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Shirley MacLaine’s performance in Sweet Charity is nothing short of incredible. She plays Charity Hope Valentine, a dance hall hostess who never gives up on love, no matter how many times life knocks her down. Shirley doesn’t just act the part — she is Charity. You feel every bit of her joy, heartbreak, and hope. She pulls you in so deeply that you can’t help but root for her, even when things seem hopeless. If you’re a fan of Shirley MacLaine, this is her at her absolute best — raw, real, and unforgettable.

The story follows Charity, a woman who works in a sleazy dance hall in New York City. She’s had her fair share of bad luck with men, starting with a boyfriend who literally pushes her off a bridge and steals her money. But Charity keeps going, always believing that love is just around the corner. She meets a shy, sweet guy named Oscar, and for a moment, it feels like things might finally work out for her. But life isn’t that simple. Without giving anything away, the final moments are both surprising and emotional, perfectly capturing the ups and downs of her life.

The cast is fantastic. Shirley MacLaine is the star, of course, but the supporting actors bring so much to the table. John McMartin plays Oscar with a quiet charm that makes you want to hug him. Chita Rivera and Paula Kelly, as Charity’s best friends, are funny, sassy, and full of heart. Ricardo Montalbán is smooth and charming as a movie star who briefly sweeps Charity off her feet, and Sammy Davis Jr. absolutely steals the show with his performance of “The Rhythm of Life.” Every actor brings something special to the film, making it feel alive and full of personality.

This was Bob Fosse’s first time directing a movie, and you can see his genius all over it. The dance numbers are bold, stylish, and unforgettable. “Big Spender” and “Rich Man’s Frug” are pure magic — sexy, funny, and so full of energy that you can’t look away. Fosse’s unique style makes the whole movie feel like a work of art, but it’s never too fancy or over-the-top. It’s just the right mix of fun and emotion.

The music is another highlight. Cy Coleman’s score and Dorothy Fields’ lyrics are catchy and full of life. Songs like “If My Friends Could See Me Now” and “I’m a Brass Band” perfectly show Charity’s hopeful, never-give-up attitude. The music isn’t just there to fill space — it’s a big part of the story and makes you feel everything Charity is going through.

Even though the movie didn’t do well at the box office, it still received a lot of praise. It was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, and Best Score. Shirley MacLaine also earned a Golden Globe nomination for her performance, which just proves how amazing she was in this role.

Sweet Charity isn’t just a movie — it’s an experience. It’s about hope, resilience, and finding joy even when life is tough. Shirley MacLaine’s performance is the heart of it all, and she makes you believe in Charity’s strength and spirit. The ending might leave you with questions, but it’s a reminder that life is full of surprises. And in my heart, I feel Charity found her happy ending.

Frank Gaimari is an author and film reviewer in Seattle, where he lives with his husband and their two golden retrievers. You can learn more about his work at http://www.FrankGaimari.com.