The greatest showman allows Hugh Jackman to be at his Broadway best. And the musical sequences are some of the most fun the whole family to singalong (especially in 2nd and 3rd viewings). Although like many semi-biographical movies, after the first act it feels like the writers are just trying to think up conflict that ultimately wasn't unnecessary.

The compelling story is the protagonists ability to come from nothing himself and rise whilst empowering the less privileged circus performers.

The plot leads the lead character down a path of simply using the "freaks" for his own self benefit and when a "better option" presents itself he takes it - only somewhat redeeming himself once his "better option falls through.

Whilst it's an ordinary at best script - this shouldn't takeaway from the casts musical and performing excellence.