Detailed Summary
Introduction and Setting
The Sound of Music is a 1965 American musical drama film directed by Robert Wise and produced by 20th Century Fox. The film is based on the 1959 Broadway musical by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, which in turn is based on the memoir The Story of the Trapp Family Singers by Maria von Trapp. The film stars Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer and is set in Austria just before World War II.
The Story Unfolds
Maria’s Journey to the Von Trapp Family
The film begins with Maria (Julie Andrews), a free-spirited young woman studying to become a nun in Salzburg, Austria. Her love of music and the mountains often distracts her from her religious duties. Recognizing this, the Mother Abbess (Peggy Wood) sends Maria to the home of Captain Georg von Trapp (Christopher Plummer) to serve as the governess for his seven children. The Captain, a widower and retired naval officer, runs his household in a strict, military-like manner.
Winning Over the Children
Maria is initially met with resistance from the children, who have driven away previous governesses with their pranks. However, her kindness, enthusiasm, and love of music quickly win them over. She teaches the children to sing and brings joy and laughter back into the household. Through these interactions, Maria and the Captain begin to develop feelings for each other.
The Climax and Resolution
Love and Conflict
As Maria and the Captain grow closer, the Captain is engaged to a wealthy socialite, Baroness Elsa Schraeder (Eleanor Parker). However, he realizes that he loves Maria and breaks off the engagement. Maria and the Captain marry, much to the delight of the children. However, their happiness is short-lived as Austria is annexed by Nazi Germany.
The Escape
The Captain is ordered to accept a commission in the German Navy, which he opposes. The family plans to flee Austria, but their plan is jeopardized when they are caught during a singing competition. The family manages to escape and finds refuge in the abbey where Maria was a novice. With the help of the nuns, they evade the Nazis and make their way across the mountains to Switzerland, seeking freedom.
The Conclusion
A New Beginning
The Sound of Music ends with the von Trapp family escaping over the Alps to Switzerland. The film closes with a triumphant scene of them climbing the mountains, symbolizing hope, freedom, and the beginning of a new life.
Movie Ending
The Sound of Music concludes with the von Trapp family successfully escaping Austria by crossing the Alps into Switzerland, symbolizing their quest for freedom and a fresh start.
Post-Credits Scene
There are no post-credits scenes in The Sound of Music.
Type of Movie
The Sound of Music is a musical drama film that combines elements of romance, family, and historical drama, focusing on themes of love, resilience, and the power of music.
Cast
- Julie Andrews as Maria
- Christopher Plummer as Captain Georg von Trapp
- Eleanor Parker as Baroness Elsa Schraeder
- Richard Haydn as Max Detweiler
- Peggy Wood as Mother Abbess
- Charmian Carr as Liesl von Trapp
Film Music and Composer
The film’s music was composed by Richard Rodgers, with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. The soundtrack includes iconic songs such as “Do-Re-Mi,” “My Favorite Things,” “Edelweiss,” and the title song “The Sound of Music.”
Filming Locations
The Sound of Music was filmed in various locations in Austria and Germany, including:
- Salzburg: For many outdoor scenes, including the opening sequence.
- Schloss Leopoldskron: For the exterior of the von Trapp villa.
- Mondsee: For the wedding scene.
Awards and Nominations
The Sound of Music received numerous prestigious awards and nominations, including:
- Academy Awards: Won Best Picture, Best Director (Robert Wise), Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Music, Scoring of Music, Adaptation or Treatment. Nominated for Best Actress (Julie Andrews), Best Supporting Actress (Peggy Wood), Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Costume Design.
- Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Julie Andrews). Nominated for Best Director, Best Supporting Actress (Peggy Wood), and Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Christopher Plummer).
- BAFTA Awards: Nominated for Best Film, Best Actress (Julie Andrews), and Best Direction.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Julie Andrews’ performance as Maria became iconic and further established her career after her success in Mary Poppins.
- The film faced initial skepticism from critics but became a massive box office success and a beloved classic.
- The real Maria von Trapp and her family were involved in the film’s production and made cameo appearances.
Inspirations and References
The Sound of Music is inspired by the true story of the von Trapp family, who fled Nazi-occupied Austria. The film reflects broader themes of resilience, the importance of family, and the transformative power of music.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
The final cut of The Sound of Music closely follows the original Broadway musical, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The opening sequence with Maria singing “The Sound of Music” in the hills.
- Maria teaching the children to sing “Do-Re-Mi.”
- The puppet show performance of “The Lonely Goatherd.”
- The romantic duet “Something Good” between Maria and the Captain.
- The family’s performance at the Salzburg Festival.
- The escape sequence across the mountains.
Iconic Quotes
- “The hills are alive with the sound of music.” – Maria
- “When the Lord closes a door, somewhere He opens a window.” – Maria
- “How do you solve a problem like Maria?” – The Nuns
- “Edelweiss, edelweiss, every morning you greet me.” – Captain von Trapp
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The real von Trapp family made cameo appearances in the film.
- The use of the actual locations in Salzburg adds authenticity and visual richness to the film.
- The film includes subtle nods to Austrian culture and history, enhancing its setting and context.
Trivia
- The film’s budget was approximately $8.2 million, and it grossed over $286 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
- The soundtrack album became one of the best-selling soundtracks of all time.
- Julie Andrews performed many of her own stunts, including the iconic opening scene on the hilltop.
Why Watch?
The Sound of Music offers a timeless and uplifting portrayal of love, family, and resilience, featuring standout performances, particularly by Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer, and masterful direction by Robert Wise. Its blend of memorable music, breathtaking scenery, and heartwarming story makes it a must-watch for fans of musicals and classic cinema.
Director’s Other Movies
Robert Wise also directed:
- West Side Story (1961)
- The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)
- The Haunting (1963)
- The Andromeda Strain (1971)
- Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979)
Recommended Films for Fans
- Mary Poppins (1964)
- West Side Story (1961)
- My Fair Lady (1964)
- Fiddler on the Roof (1971)
- Oliver! (1968)
