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‘We laced Nicole into her corset and her rib broke again’: Moulin Rouge at 25

Stagehands poured Coca-Cola on the floor, Ewan McGregor waved his lightsaber, and people did unspeakable things with the film’s Oscars at the post-awards-ceremony party. Director Baz Luhrmann, Jim Broadbent and more recall filming the record-breaking movie

‘We laced Nicole into her corset and her rib broke again’: Moulin Rouge at 25

TL;DR

  • The film 'Moulin Rouge!' reinvigorated the musical genre with its extravagant style, pop song medleys, and a story of doomed love in turn-of-the-century Paris.
  • Director Baz Luhrmann employed his signature style of frantic editing, over-the-top visuals, and contemporary music, perfected in previous films.
  • Despite mixed reviews, the film was a box office success and received a Best Picture Oscar nomination, a first for a musical since 'Beauty and the Beast'.
  • Cast and crew members recall humorous and challenging moments during production, including Nicole Kidman's on-set injuries and the unique methods used to create memorable scenes.
  • The film's soundtrack was also a major success, with a Lady Marmalade cover hitting No. 1 and the film winning two Oscars for art direction and costume design.
  • 'Moulin Rouge!' continues to be celebrated as a modern classic, adapted for the stage and maintaining its impact on film history.