Funny Girl (4*)

 

I hoped that sixth row, center seats ($80 @ TKTS!) for Lea Michele's star turn as Fanny Brice might dim my desire to have seen Barbra Streisand originate the role on Broadway, but no. Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery--and Lea perfectly mimics the decidedly Brooklyn Jewish speech inflections and mannerisms that made both Fanny and Barbra so unforgettable--but a copy is still a copy.  Still, she sings and vamps delightfully, and she clicks hilariously with Ramin Karimloo in the musical's best non-singing scene.  I enjoyed every minute of the first act with the best closing number EVER, the second not so much but I suspect that would remain a problem even if I did own a show biz time machine.  First stop: opening night at the Winter Garden on March 26, 1964.  "Hello, gorgeous!"

Funny Girl (5*)

 

Nick Hornby believes bingeing shouldn't be limited to streaming content.  He certainly delivers here.  I couldn't put down his funny and achingly perceptive novel about the joys of working with smart, talented people you love, particularly when you're starting out in the Swinging Sixties.  A young woman's road from the sticks to accidental but instant stardom at the BBC drives an often told story but this one also delineates the contrasting perspectives and lifestyles of two gay writers who adore her.  For good measure Hornby also makes early fame every bit as fun and exciting as you expect it to be.  Delightful.