Meaning: Norman Jewison, a renowned film director, offers insight into the unique challenges of shooting a musical in this quote. When shooting a musical, the actors' performances are often synced to pre-recorded tracks, requiring careful choreography and planning to ensure a seamless and captivating final product. Jewison's words shed light on the technical and artistic considerations involved in bringing a musical to life on the big screen.

The process of shooting a musical presents a distinctive set of challenges compared to other film genres. Unlike in non-musical films where actors typically perform their lines live during filming, musicals often require performers to lipsynch to pre-recorded tracks. This aspect adds a layer of complexity to the production, as it necessitates meticulous planning and coordination to ensure that the on-screen performances align perfectly with the recorded music.

Jewison's reference to choreography highlights the pivotal role of dance and movement in musicals. The choreography of musical numbers not only contributes to the visual spectacle of the film but also serves as a crucial element in the storytelling process. Each dance sequence must be meticulously crafted to complement the music, convey the emotions of the characters, and advance the narrative in a compelling manner. This requires extensive rehearsal and coordination between the director, choreographer, and performers to achieve a harmonious fusion of music, movement, and storytelling.

Furthermore, Jewison's emphasis on working out what they wanted to do with each number before filming underscores the importance of meticulous planning and vision in the production of a musical. Unlike non-musical films where improvisation and spontaneity may play a larger role in the creative process, musicals demand a more structured approach. Every musical number, from the grand production pieces to intimate solos, requires careful consideration of the artistic vision, character motivations, and thematic relevance to the overall story. This pre-production phase is essential for aligning the creative vision of the director, choreographer, and other key collaborators to ensure a cohesive and impactful musical experience for the audience.

In addition to the artistic considerations, the technical aspects of shooting a musical also pose unique challenges. The synchronization of lipsynched performances with pre-recorded music demands precision in editing and sound design. Seamless integration of the vocal performances with the musical score is crucial to creating a polished and immersive auditory experience for the audience. This intricate process often involves extensive post-production work to fine-tune the audiovisual elements and achieve the desired cinematic impact.

Jewison's quote offers valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of bringing a musical to the screen. It underscores the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where meticulous planning, choreography, and technical expertise converge to create a captivating and seamless musical experience. By highlighting the intricacies of shooting a musical, Jewison provides a glimpse into the dedication and artistry required to translate the magic of live musical theater into the cinematic medium.