Chapter Iv

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id
CHAPTER IV
ANALYSIS
The concept of the American dream is often used even by the president and other
nationalists of America. Not everyone agrees with these values, but still this concept is
universal for all nations. Datesman (2014) identifies three basic American values that have
developed through the history of the United States: individual freedom, equality, and diversity.
These three values are believed to be able to realize The Pursuit of Happiness. To realize these
values, Americans must pay it with independence, competition, and hard work. Although the
meaning of the American dream has evolved throughout United States history, the concept is
generally understood as economic security and domestic happiness, where this dream promises
a new beginning and a brighter future (Gabrielson, 2009).
In this chapter, the researcher discusses how the film The Greatest Showman represents
the American dream. The discussion starts from taking shots and dialogue in the film scene.
The scenes and dialogues are selected and divided into some categories that relate to the
American dream. The related values are self-reliance, hard work, and equality of opportunity.
The next part of the discussion is about romanticizing the American dream as seen in The
Greatest Showman.
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4.1. The Representation of the American Dream in The Greatest Showman
Most people know the American dream is all about achieving higher social status,
material success, and many more that the American can dream of. The Greatest Showman
reveals the struggle of someone to fulfill his dream, namely Phineas Taylor Barnum. Barnum's
life journey in this film depicts big dreams that are never impossible as long as they have
endeavored with hard work, belief, and the courage to make decisions. The Greatest Showman
brings excitement from the start of the film and provides an air of hope conveyed to the
audience. This film is made in such a way to evoke the spirit of the American dream through
several scenes that contain conversations and scenes that represent the American dream.
Furthermore, The Greatest Showman seems to want to convey to the American public that the
American dream is still real and is not an impossible thing to achieve for anyone who believes
it.
4.1.1. Barnum’s Story from Rags to Riches
Since the very first time in American history, land of America had offered dreams for
people who came there. It is called the American dream. David F. Track in Henry Piper's Scott
Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby said that the American dream consisted of the belief, sometimes
thought of as a promise that people of talent in this land of opportunity and plenty could
reasonably aspire for material success if they adhered to fairly well-defined set of behavioral
rules (Track, 1970). Many people are familiar with the concept of the American dream. The
American dream describes the individual who goes from rags to riches. Someone who is poor
or disadvantaged, and through diligence and hard work can become prosperous and successful.
The Greatest Showman places Phineas T. Barnum at the center of the storyline. The first
shot in this clip introduces a man connotating to be powerful, strong, in charge, and mysterious.
This character is presented with the mise en scene such as dark, dramatic, silhouetted lighting
and powerful color by red and black. The music is matched with the character’s actions. The
narrative portrayal of the protagonist is brought closer by the shot to give the impression of the
closeness to the audience. The silhouetted lighting throughout the following shots of the
protagonist connotes that he is mysterious, hiding something and ominous, adding to the feel
of the film. The audience perceives from the shots that he is the main character, The Greatest
Showman. The director of this film, Michael Gracey, intended to create a film world so
immersive, overwhelming, and intriguing that the audience wants to go back into it and watch
it again. It’s designed in a way that it is too much to take in on one viewing, and the audiences
want to go back and not to revisit those characters but revisit those moments (Gracey, 2018).
The story begins when little Barnum lives with his father, a maid in the Hallet family's
house. In the film, Barnum is not a rich man's son and is forced to join his father to work for
the Hallet family. One day, just before he left for the Hallets' house, Barnum saw a suit
complete with trousers, vest, coat, and hat on display in a shop window. Seeing the suit made
Barnum dreams of wearing it one day. However, just for a moment, Barnum surveyed the shop
window, his father hastily pulled Barnum's hand to quickly head to the Hallet family's house.
Then he met Charity, the son of the Hallet family who made him even more daring to dream
and work hard to achieve it.
Picture 1. Barnum is reflecting the suit with his body.

Picture 2. Barnum is looking at his broken shoes.
In Figure 1, a suit and hat is hanging in the display case that Barnum was staring at. Of
the many outfits Americans wear in this film, this suit does not look special because many
people wear it. However, to Barnum, this suit seemed so fitting for him. Barnum investigated
the shop window glass and adjusted his reflection on the suit to look as if he was wearing it.
The reflection of the glass also means that it is the unreality that Barnum faces. The camera
angle put Barnum on screen center with a contrast lighting. The contrast lighting can be seen
when we focus on Barnum’s back and the reflection on the window. The reflection looks blurry
or not really clear. Even though Barnum's face and body fill the suit's shadow perfectly, it is
not very clear. From this take, the director can give a message that Barnum's dream is not yet
too clear to be achieved. Or it can be too difficult and requires extra hard work, even a miracle
to achieve.
In contrast, Barnum showed his broken shoes in Figure 2. The broken shoes mean that
his father cannot buy him new proper shoes. The focus on the screen is the pair of broken shoes.
Somehow, these scenes show Barnum's desire to move away from being very poor to be able
to wear nice clothes one day. It is quite reasonable since the clothes worn by the people also
represent a person's social class. Display of wealth through dress became customary in Europe
in the late thirteenth century. Therefore, a person’s class affiliation could be assessed with
relative ease because dress was recognized as an expressive and a potent means of social
distinction, it was often exploited in class warfare to gain leverage (Carter, 2003). Dress could
signify one’s culture, propriety, moral standards, economic status, and social power, and so it
became a powerful tool to negotiate and structure social relations as well as to enforce class
differences. Here, little Barnum is imagining the dream he is supposed to be in the future where
the dream of material success is attached to his appearance.
Fashion clothing is not just a style but can also be used to represent someone (Barnard,
2014). The existence of a structured meaning system in it that allows an individual to interpret
a social identity, sexuality, gender, and class based on what is used which includes in the realm
of communication. Fashion is an important mark of position that people can simply justify
other people’s identity related to the economic condition just by what is visible from the outfit.
This is reasonable because the outfit can be expensive, which excludes the lower class, the
lower economic condition. It also goes hand-in-hand with the consumption habit. People with
lower economic class tend to spend their money for primary goods such as food and house
rather than manage for the fancy dress.
On the other hand, wealthy classes of the community demand in matters of dress. When
Barnum reflects his body to the suit displayed on the storefront, he is actually imagining what
he will become in the future. The suit that he adores represents his status, the wealth that he
will reach, because good and expensive clothes can only be bought and worn by people who
have the money to buy them.
Hallet’s family actually shows the condition that Barnum wants to achieve. When
Barnum’s father takes Barnum to Hallet’s house, that is the first time Barnum meets Charity.
Charity is a beautiful girl. As a child from a family with a higher social status, Charity is taught
various manners of behavior that are believed to be the manners of people with higher social
class, including table manners. However, Charity does not seem to like it. Charity is actually
amused by Barnum's jokes when he is being taught to drink tea. But Barnum is unlucky, he is
scolded and beaten by Hallet for being considered rude. Charity is forbidden to be friends with
Barnum because Barnum is a poor person, and does not belong to the same social classes.
One day, Charity feels sad because she is sent to another city. That made it impossible
for him to meet Barnum. Then Barnum comforts Charity by taking him to a secret place he
finds. There, Barnum shows Charity what his dream is. That is a magnificent circus, featuring
large and wild animals in every appearance. Charity also feels comforted and has the same
optimism as Barnum in the future. In the end, they agree to keep in touch via postal
mail. Within the movie, Charity is one of Barnum's dreams that must be realized. Charity that
comes with money, a house, and a high social class, is a hope for Barnum. By winning Charity's
heart, Barnum gets closer to his American dream. Charity’s family is a representation of the
dream that Barnum wants to achieve. Charity has everything such as a big house and money
which are all related to the American dream. Her house, in the movie where the house looks
like a luxurious place, has a wide house yard covered with green grass, and bordered by the
street that is straight to the house front. Inside the house, there is a fireplace facing the room
completed with the house ornaments such as bronze teapot, hanging chandelier lamps, and
table and walls covered in carved wood. However, Charity cannot buy happiness except of
living her own desire that is having her life with Barnum. Instead of enjoying her status as she
is born in a wealthy family, which has high social status, she felt being stricter of it.
Picture 3. Barnum is seeing the announcement of railroad construction.
Barnum’s pursuit of the American dream is coming into a new phase when he sees a man
offering a job in the country rail road (Figure 3). The man is standing in the midst of the crowd
so the people can hear and notice him. Barnum sees the crowd from across the street. The
camera takes a middle-wide shot that captures Barnum’s back and the crowd beside him. The
director places people who appear to be relatively the same height, even though the clothes
they wear are different. Somehow, this signifies equal opportunity available to everyone.
Man: Come! Join the Great American road! Fair and ample wages. Come and make your
fortune! See the open plains of America! Opportunity awaits you, Sir. Out on the
rails!” (00:08:27).
This is absolutely a great chance that Barnum could not miss. Shortly, he joins the job
for years. For most Americans, the meaning of the American dream is also about looking
forward toward the future. It includes the chase of wealth and rich, which will always be the
end of the pursuit of the dream. The efforts that Barnum give is a dream that every American
wants, just like what James Truslow Adam stated on his speech “… American dream is to be
happier, richer, and better for all of our citizens and those all are the dreams that have been
brought from the day they were born” (A Dream Country). Throughout the statement of James
Truslow, it is clearly said that each American has to gain their life, liberty, and happiness by
putting their ideas into action. This is what Barnum is trying to achieve, he works harder, takes
the risk of the job and a place he never imagined before that is joining the railroad construction.
He is not following the situation, rather he is facing it differently to solve his problem, to
survive, to make better conditions and such. The concept explained here is about how the
American dream in the movie is becoming doctrine for those who are diligent, optimistic, and
able to take any opportunities in their life moments, and they will be harvesting their joyous
life as a result.
Picture 4. Barnum comes back to meet Charity.
The result that Barnum achieves from joining the railroad construction is shown on
Figure 4. He returns and walks toward Charity’s house, with a face that looks charming,
confident, and nervous at the same time because he is going to meet his love of life. The camera
takes neutral and soft lighting on the screen. Therefore, using angles and lighting like this
creates a romantic impression, dreamlike or magical atmosphere (Dang, 2018). The camera
also takes pictures of Barnum's body so that it shows what Barnum wears at the time. He is
seen wearing a brown coat suit with a blue to gray vest and tie shirt after. This outfit is definitely
different from the one Barnum wore when he was a kid. Indicates a changing economic
situation where now Barnum is able to buy clothes that are suitable for wearing. Barnum is
able to survive and improve his life with his hard work.
This is not the end of Barnum’s journey, it is just the beginning instead. Later, after his
meeting with Charity, Barnum gives more efforts to achieve the future that he has promised to
Charity. He wants to be the man who can do the best to be wealthy with every effort he gives,
even by dealing with the unconditional problem. This is what happened later when he worked
at the trading administration office: the vessels that were shipping across the South China Sea
were all together by a typhoon. Thus, the company declares bankruptcy and dismisses all of
the employees including Barnum. Now, Barnum is jobless and does not have money for his
family. However, Barnum finds a solution that is taking a loan from the bank. The money then
used to buy a hall in the center of the town for his stuffed-things museum.
Picture 5. Barnum and his family are getting off from the horse-drawn carriage.
Picture 6. Barnum and his family are entering their new house.
The journey of P. T Barnum is getting a new level of struggle after he successfully
manages the circus. He manages to bring in an enthusiastic audience at every show held in his
circus. Although critics and opponents of Barnum's circus continue to try to disrupt it, the circus
persists in the city. Barnum also has a strategy in dealing with the disturbance, especially after
he convinces the famous show specialist named Philip Carlyle to join the circus. The circus is
a prima donna for the city. Due to the success of the circus, Barnum is finally able to buy a
luxury house that he has promised Charity long ago.
In Figure 6, Barnum, Charity, and their two daughters enter the house for the first time.
They look so fascinated, their faces are so happy to see the splendor of the house. Barnum said
“This is the life that I promised to you”(00:32:56). This time, Barnum truly manifests the life
he has always wanted to give to Charity. This is the moment of happiness that the Barnum
family had been waiting for. The camera angle comes from the inside of the house to clearly
capture the facial expressions of the Barnum family, along with the existing property of the
house. Their expressions show great enthusiasm, amazement, and a hint of disbelief. This
moment is also strengthened by choosing soft lighting or diffused lighting. A lighting like this
displays the camera object with a soft light, not too bright but also showing a little shadow.The
choice of lighting creates a romantic and dreamlike or magical atmosphere. In keeping with
the feelings of the Barnum family who feel that this house is a dream come true.
The success of the circus that Barnum achieves with his team does not satisfy Barnum.
On the other hand, Barnum feels more and more compelled to achieve greater success. Not
only in the city, he manages a larger scale show that touches other states in America. The
opportunity comes when Carlyle successfully approaches Queen Victoria in England. The
Queen wants to invite Barnum’s circus to come to the palace. As they come to the palace,
Barnum is meeting Jenny Lind, a Europe popular singer with a heavenly-voice. Barnum does
not waste the opportunity to get Jenny Lind to work with him. Later, Jenny Lind's agrees to
hold first appearance in New York with the title “The Swedish Nightingale”. As expected,
Jenny's performance gains a huge success and immediately receives tremendous praise from
the New Yorkers, especially from the higher economic classes. Even Bennett, a critic who
previously underestimated Barnum's performances, finally admits that Barnum managed to
provide real joy for the people this time.
The results which Barnum shows to his family are presented in Picture 6. The picture
makes clear shapes of the American dream referred to in the film, especially for Barnum
perspectives. The mansion that Barnum bought represents the American dream, namely
material ownership. Moreover, Barnum tells Charity that this house is the representation of the
life he had promised to Charity. Through this house, Barnum declares himself that he is free
from economic difficulties after doing business for so long. Moreover, Barnum defines his
position by having the horse-drawn carriage shown in Picture 5. Horse-drawn carriage
ownership in America became an era in 1850 to 1910. During that period, only the rich could
afford to buy a private vehicle, one of which was a horse-drawn carriage. People who own
horse-drawn carriages are considered to be really rich because of the price of the vehicle is
expensive, added with the need for employing a driver man that also spending money.
4.2. The Spirit of American Dream in The Greatest Showman
4.2.1. Self-Reliance
Sometimes, taking the risk is what people decide to gain something that is bigger and
worthier. That is what Barnum does, he risks himself by using the trading vessels document
for the collateral of the bank loan. He started to living up his dream, which is by having his
own museum, and he also think that it is going to be an easy way to be done, that the people
will be easily amazed by his property just like what he said to Charity “A place where people
can see things they've never seen before. I know how it looks. I mean, it is just a little work.
We’re gonna pay for it. We just need customers” (00:17:41). This time, Barnum shows his
confidence by putting the wish on his museum. The way he convinces Charity about this
museum project shows a real faith in his idea. After that, Barnum and his daughters directly
distribute the brochures of the museum to the people who pass the streets. Sadly, it seems that
the attempt does not work as easy as it looks. People just take the brochure and throw it away
like rubbish. However, the film's point is about how self-reliance is placed on the first chapter
of the dream. Self reliance can give optimism to who owns and leans on it, especially optimism
about the dream. Gerald (2012) in his book entitled “The New Self-Reliance” explains the true
meaning of self-reliance. On this principle, the consciousness that people have nature and
power to find their way of life and even to find the foundation of their existence. And what is
believed to be the right for the individual (Gerald, 2012). In this scene, Barnum legitimates his
idea and consciousness to be the power that encourages his body and mind to take a real action
that brings him closer to his desire, his dream. Somehow, this film suggests to the audiences
that self-reliance value is more than nature that people own. It can be the spirit for the people
to reach what they ever dream of. It also goes hand-in-hand with Fisher’s statement (1973) that
The American dream can still be achieved regardless of background, gender, ethnicity, or
personal history. The only thing that matters according to Fisher is the value of effort,
perseverance, initiative, independence, achievement, and success (Fisher, 1973). Therefore,
this strand of the American dream ideally provides individuals with success as long as they
demonstrate a commitment to their goals. On the other hand, the moral aspect concerning "good
things" and being fair to everyone also needs to be considered.
The other part of the film that shows the value of self-reliance is when Barnum finds
the unique people in the city. He searches and gathers them for the show that he manages.
Later, Barnum brands them with a new nickname for the stage. Barnum's move this time turned
out to be his first success. Although at first many people doubted and underestimated, in the
end many people liked the performance of this unique people. When Barnum looks for the first
person he meets at the bank, the little man, he does not hesitate when he gets rejected. Instead,
he convinced the little man to come with him. Barnum said "People will come from all over
the world, and when they see him, they won't laugh, they'll salute". (00:22:00-00:22:10). Then
he also expressed his confidence when he met the beard-lady, "They don't understand, but they
will" (00:23:35-00:23:39). Through Barnum's conversation with Lettie, it can be investigated
that Barnum still has empathy and trust in others even though he has "uniqueness", of course,
regardless of his business motivation. Barnum shows the value of tolerance and compassion in
the form of empathy and trust in others. This is an important attitude that everyone should have
in his pursuit of the American dream's success in society (Fisher, 1973).
4.2.2. The Equality of Opportunity
The equality of opportunity values have appeared for years and decades since the
immigrants choose to leave their homeland and seek the better chance more than they had in
their homes. Tocqueville has noted that Americans are seen as always doing their best to put
everyone in an equal position. Datesman (2007) cites Tocqueville's words that the more people
study about American society and their ideas, the more they understand how important equality
is for society, and that value seems to be emphasized and passed on to later generations. Given
this fact, it's obvious to Americans or non-Americans to try their luck in finding oceans with
more big fish.
A romantic ideal provides hope for those who struggle not only with adversity but with
prejudice and exclusion on a daily basis (Marin, 2008). The portrayal of American dream is
projected throughout American culture and can be seen in movies and media. In an ideal
condition, this understanding is able for everyone to reach their lives better and happier.
However, does this understanding fully apply to anyone regardless of their background or
social class? Can Americans achieve the success of their American dream if their society is
divided along social class lines? Social stratification implies division among society that is
based on social inequality. In this film, the question of equality of opportunity is discussed.
The Greatest Showman revolves around how equality is built regardless of the background of
members of the community in it, including poor Americans such as Phineas T. Barnum and
several other figures.
The Greatest Showman describes the equality of opportunity that P.T Barnum
experienced in his life. The first time, the equality of opportunity came when he joined the
railroad construction project. The scene in Picture 3 shows that Barnum is not the only one
who is enthusiastic about this work. There were also several people crowding the streets to
register. Defining opportunity in America, with or without compensating for inequalities in
economic conditions, Americans have faith in the idea that a person's success depends on what
he or she does to seize the opportunity: namely compete for equal opportunity.
Another character in The Greatest Showman, one of whom is Lettie Lutz the Beard
Lady, has to fight a harder struggle to get equal opportunity. Unlike other women, she has the
difference that she has a beard that is normally owned by men. Besides, Lettie has a beautiful
voice so she can sing well. However, the reality is that Lettie can not survive that easily in a
society that does not accept her uniqueness. She is discriminated against and ridiculed for her
beard, which made her insecure. “-Barnum: “You’re so talented, blessed, extraordinary..
unique. I would even say beautiful”. “Lettie: “Sir, please leave me alone.”” -Barnum:They
don’t understand, but they will.” (00:08:27).
Barnum convinces Lettie about the step he offers that makes Lettie not regret. The
sentence expressed by Barnum can be interpreted as a representative of the face of the

American land that should be, namely the land of opportunity. Barnum hinted however that
Lettie's condition was not a problem because people would find something interesting in a
Lettie. Likewise with land of America, whatever skills a person has will make him successful
on the condition that he finds the right path. Barnum came to give Lettie that path as an
opportunity that Lettie should not miss if she wanted to change her fate and succeed in the
future.
What Barnum did to Lettie is like what Carlyle did the same to Anne. Anne is known
to be black and does not come from a family with a high social class. At that time, Carlyle went
with Anne to watch a show in the city. But the unfortunate thing happened when the two of
them met Carlyle's parents. Seeing his son walk along with Anne, Carlyle's mother and father
cursed them both and it hurt Anne. Anne, who is already embarrassed, sad, and angry, can not
do anything but leave them. However, Carlyle does not follow the words of her family, he still
chooses to be with Anne. As a sign of Carlyle's seriousness, he follows Anne who at that time
has turned out to be heading to the circus hall for practice. At the circus hall, Carlyle tries to
convince Anne that they could be together despite coming from completely different
backgrounds. Accompanied by the song "Rewrite The Stars", Carlyle revealed how he still
wants to be with Anne.
The song “Rewrite The Stars” has calm music at first but is then followed by energetic
beats. Actually this song is romantic with the theme of sadness, confusion, and at the same time
hope. This song tells of lovers who search for a faith. Even so, this song still has an energetic
impression and is able to bring a sad but not too deep atmosphere. In fact, it creates the
impression of being anxious or frantic to the audiences.
The approach that Carlyle did to Anne is an embodiment of how America should accept
people with equal treatment, see everyone according to their abilities, and regardless of
background, race, or origin, and of course also provide equal opportunities for everyone.
Besides, Anne's disapproval of Carlyle demonstrates the pessimism that many non-whites in
America actually experience. Without feelings of inferiority, it is the environment and society
that make it difficult for people like Anne. Carlyle trying to convince Anne represents the ideal
state that all Americans should live up to, that no one is unworthy of success and accepted in
America.
Another sequence that portrays the imagination that America is the land of opportunity
is when Barnum meets Jenny Lind in the Queen of England palace. “-Barnum: “Miss Lind, let
me get to the point. I’d like to bring you to New York, and if you agree, I’ll make you the most
famous singer not in Europe, but in the entire world” (00:46:20). Jenny Lind is not an
American. Instead, she has never imagined that she would be come to America and gained
popularity. Moreover, she is being unoptimistic person and haunted because of her background:
born without wedlock. Barnum once again succeeds to convince Jenny Lind is worthy to come
to America. It is another sign that this film is trying to persuade the audiences about the magic
of America, that the idea of equality of opportunity is still reliable. The opportunity is always
available for everyone who have enough encourage to take it, depending on their commitment
and faith.
From the discussion of the previous paragraphs, it can be seen how the idea of equality
of opportunity wants to be discussed in the film The Greatest Showman. People are seeing how
the image of America has begun to fade. The myth has said, anyone can be a successful person
regardless of background, gender, and social class, and here is what this film wants to give to
the audiences. This is symbolized by several characters who appear with different backgrounds
and even have their own uniqueness. Characters such as Lettie Lutz are shown to represent
“unique” people who are often discriminated against and ridiculed in society. Likewise with
Anne Wheeler as a representation of black people with social strata that are considered lower
than white people. Meanwhile, Jenny Lind is shown to represent newcomers who are trying
their luck in America.
Changes and social dynamics that occur deliver American dream discourses into the
fade in the eyes of American society. In the midst of people's doubts about the American dream
they want to achieve, The Greatest Showman emerges as a spring in the desert. From the scenes
that have been discussed previously, it can be indicated that The Greatest Showman wants to
convince the audience to remain convinced that America is still worthy even though the
conditions have changed from time to time.
4.3. Romanticizing the American Dream
According to Cambridge dictionary, romanticizing means to believe that something is
better, more interesting, or more exciting than it really is. Culturally, film narratives can convey
messages or values that can be accepted by the audience through the entertainment in the film
structure itself (Chatman, 1981). As an ideological subject, the audience is the main goal in the
film. Even though the world in the film is fictional, there is always a value or message that the
filmmaker wants to convey. Messages or values in films are often influenced by cultural and
even political interests from the production house or country of origin of the film (Maisuwong,
2012). Films are not showing explicit and vulgar messages carelessly, although they are often
encountered. To convey the moral message through the film well, the story must first be able
to convince the audience to accept how the structure and form of the moral message is
communicated. In addition, what is more common in films is how the film first provides a
demonstration of the behavior or choices of the character agents. Then, the film shows the
consequences of the decision of character agents. Finally, the audience accepts it as a
suggestion (Fisher, 1982).

The Greatest Showman film as a musical film has advantages in conveying ideological
messages through its film structure. The presentation of the film which is accompanied by a lot
of music and dance gives an impression of spirit and enthusiasm to the audience in the real
world. In addition, The Greatest Showman as a musical film is expected to be able to influence
the audience through the energy displayed through the attributes brought by the actors. The
film's content which is filled with the process of hope and sadness and then ends with happiness
for the success of the actors, is demonstrated in an interesting way. It aims to gain the audience's
confidence in the moral values in the story. To build audience confidence, the film displays
two identifications, namely directly and through on-screen spectators. Both identifications
require audience participation in their performance. Direct address is most often achieved
through the lyrics of the musicals, marked by the pronouns “you” and “we”. By lyrically
addressing the film's audience, the film symbolically invites spectators to participate in the
construction of the entertainment. Then for the on-screen spectator convention, the film
displays the audience on a performance stage. It includes the shot of the audience on the stage
which transitions to a shot of the performance from the audience perspective in which fellow
members of the stage audience are still visible. Next, the image moves closer to the
performance, cropping the audience from view. As Feuer (2007) notes, this visual progression
creates a feeling of emotional attachment between spectator and performer.
By all those theoretical identifications of the film musicals, it is all used to comprehend
the discussion of romanticizing the American dream in The Greatest Showman. In this chapter
part, the discussion will be focused on how the elements of the film involved on the
development of film agenda that is romanticizing American dream. The highlights of analysis
are including the music lyrics and the spectacles attached on the shots. For the songs, there are
at least 9 songs played by the actors; The Greatest Show, A Million Dreams, Come Alive, The
Other Side, Never Enough, This Is Me, Rewrite the Stars, Tightrope, and From Now On.
4.3.1. Reviving American Dreams in the Time Crisis
Picture 7. Close shot silhouette of the showman.
The first soundtrack played in the opening of the film is ‘The Greatest Show’, sung
by the main actor protagonist of the film namely P.T Barnum. The first line he reads is
“Ladies and Gents, this is the moment you’ve waited for”. Those words may be the lyric part
of the song, but the case here is more interesting because it is put on at the very beginning of
the film. The music also begins with a drum beat that plays along with the heartbeat. The
rhythm of the drums makes the situation tense but not scary. In fact, the sound of drums at
the beginning of the song and film makes an impression of impatience on the audience.
Somehow, it can be intended to be aimed at both the audience in the film and the audience
watching in the cinema. This part is considerably important because this lets the target
audience to relate to the show, creating the realistic atmosphere, and sharing the experience.
To make the audience feel more involved in the film. The discourse is not only what the
audience feels while watching the film. Further, it is about the experience that comes after the
entire film is played. It is all about the energy, the message, the spirit that can be brought into
the real world of the American audience.
“If you are a woman, a black individual or a poor white, the American dream does
not exist for you. The story of the American dream was possibly true during the 50s
and 60s where anyone could come in and make it big in America. Today, the American
dream is more propaganda than reality,” (Friedman, 2017)
At that time, the United States had one big problem, namely the highest income
inequality among other developed countries. This situation is one of the worst in decades, and
it is not a good thing to offer the same confidence and opportunity to advance economic
conditions. In fact, President Donald Trump has just been elected for America. However,
instead of giving hope to society, Americans are increasingly pessimistic and feel that the
American dream is getting farther from their reality.
The Harvard Institute of Politics in 2015 published research results related to the
attitudes of American youth towards politics and public service with the question "Is the idea
of the American dream alive or dead?" (Volpe, et al., 2015). Through this study, it is revealed
that there are differences in trust and optimism between teens in America. Most American teens
admit that the American dream does not mean much to them. It becomes interesting because
some Trump supporters question the existence of the research. The results of this research are
then used to support the claim that the American dream has died in the Trump Presidency era.
Even during his campaign, Trump has spoken about his ability to revive the American dream.
The American dream, which is the basic philosophy of America, lies at two opposite
poles, optimism, and pessimism. However, The Greatest Showman, which was released in the
early days of Trump's leadership, seemed to want to provide a fresh air of optimism for the
American population. The following are some analyzes to prove that the film The Greatest
Showman conveys an ideological message that reawakens the hopes of the American dream to
the audience.
The film The Greatest Showman displays the overall atmosphere of excitement
throughout the film. Although this is a musical film, the existence of this film is not only
entertainment but also able to bring a message of life to the audience. Without neglecting the
vitality of plot and structure in musical films, song and spectacle also carry a leading role in
the vehicle of the show (Feuer, 2007). Unlike straight plays, the characters of musical films tell
their stories in two languages: dialogues and songs, because sometimes words are not enough
to express emotions on stage. Here, songs take the place of words. If music possesses an
element that raises thought or emotion above words, then it logically follows that musical is
certainly not all flash and smoke. Musical converts society through their show tunes and
spectacular effects as and results have become a popular form of film. After the audience leaves
the theatre, they will not recall much of the dialogue, but they will hum the songs.
The message conveyed in The Greatest Showman is clearly aimed at adult audiences
dealing with life dynamics such as anxiety about the future, which somehow results. Like when
little Charity has found out that she would be sent to school away from home, and she did not
know what her future would hold. Barnum, who was in a more deplorable condition, was
actually able to cheer up Charity by singing to the accompaniment of “A Million Dreams”. The
lyrics of the song contain sentences that hint at high hopes and motivations.
Every night I lie in bed

The brightest colours fill my head
A million dreams are keeping me awake
I think of what the world could be
A vision of the one I see
A million dreams is all it's gonna take
Oh a million dreams for the world we're gonna make
(A Million Dreams)
The popular song in The Greatest Showman “A Million Dreams” is sung by Ziv
Zaifman, Hugh Jackman and Michelle Williams. This song is the film's second track after “The
Greatest Show”. In early 2018, "A Million Dreams" had topped the billboard chart and the top
10 charts in other countries. Delivered with solemn and passionate pop music, this song brings
the audience's mood to be full of confidence in dreaming and not afraid to face the future. The
music feels calm but also has an exuberance part. By that way, the audience's impression when
this song is played is a happy and energetic feeling (Bhat, 2014). This song appears in a
situation that is not good for Barnum and Charity. Somehow, the play of this song marks a
break in the storyline as well as swifting the timeline of the film to the future but still with
scenes that the audience can follow. Although there is no direct dialogue between Barnum and
Charity, the combination of scenes and lyrics is still able to tell the situation of the film.This
statement is also supported by the scene played by Charity and Barnum when they suddenly
grow up over time. The reality is that they have grown up and meet again to live together. The
future they were worried about turned out to be coming quickly without them realizing it, and
the worries that Charity had before were not a problem.
Another song played to make the situation livelier is “Come Alive”. It is the third
official song from the soundtrack of the film The Greatest Showman, performed by Zendaya
and Hugh Jackman. The actors sing this song when they are about to have their first circus
performance. At that time, Barnum's circus members felt insecure and worried about their
appearance. They worry about whether their performance will entertain or invite ridicule from
the audience. The song is very energetic and happy, which can bring the tense of spirit and
bravery.
When the world becomes a fantasy

And you're more than you could ever be
'Cause you're dreaming with your eyes wide open
And you know you can't go back again
To the world that you were living in
'Cause you're dreaming with your eyes wide open
So, come alive!
(Come Alive)
Imagining the American dream is like a fantasy for today's American society
(Friedman, 2017). A fragment of the lyrics of the song "Come Alive" also likens it this way:
"When the world becomes a fantasy". Having the American dream for Americans is like
nurturing a fantasy in their minds. This statement is certainly not an exaggeration, considering
the social and political conditions during the election period until the inauguration of President
Trump had such a huge impact on all levels of society. High-income inequality, low public
confidence, and the loss of the American dream are the worst situations in decades (Graham,
2017). "Social conditions will continue to get worse, especially with Trump's policies," said
Moore (2017) in an interview during the Oscar gala. However, the continuation of the lyrics to
the song "Come Alive" suddenly seemed to break it all. "And you're more than you could ever
be...", denying that the sweet dreams of the American dream are just a fantasy. In fact, through
this fantasy, people can happily build beautiful hopes as motivation in real life.
Richard Dyer (1981) has revealed that entertainment offers the image of 'something
better' to escape into, or something we want deeply that our day-to-day lives don't provide, then
the musical's promise of escapism fulfills a level of social need for its audiences That is the
content that The Greatest Showman brings to the mass, to elevate the audience into another
sphere outside of their lives and minds where the things are better than reality. Somehow, when
we try to relate it to the context of American life, which at that time was filled with doubts
about the American dream, this film is actually trying to remind the audience that the best thing
that can be done is to keep hope and have faith.
The Greatest Showman has established performance and romance as attractive narrative
that can proceed to develop pleasure around these conventional elements. On the side of
joyfulness, the film can really trigger the audience’s spirit and hope through the demonstration
obstacles and solutions. Without ignoring the audience's questions about the utopia displayed
on screen, the audience's response is dominantly indicating the success of this film. The
romance performances demonstrated by Barnum and Charity, and Carlyle and Anne are
addressing the same idea that is. Both couples come from different social status: the rich and
the poor. Besides, Anne is black.
Race and racism have always run into American politics. Even so, Trump during his
campaign actually created a racial image in the election. According to a CNN.com (2016)
quote, all of this comes at a time when Trump was trying to improve his image among minority
voters, especially African-Americans and Latinos. Trump's rhetoric around race, ethnicity and
citizenship has soared the turnout among every demographic bloc of the state that Trump
became the Republican presidential candidate with influence in nearly every voting bloc. This
finding is not surprising considering America is a place of diversity. In addition, this
phenomenon also shows that the majority of Americans are racist and fanatic, even though they
are actually tired of inner strife over ethnic relations.
Political parties also influence the understanding of the American dream. Both
Republicans and Trump have shown their defense of the working class to the exclusion of the
intellectual class. While the Democrats are more on the side of intellectualism. Of course, this
affects American society, because the myth of the American dream still tells them that wealth
is the ultimate goal. The American dream is theirs if they work hard, if they are lucky enough,
and if they have the opportunity. Trump's status as the American dream legitimizes the idea
that this American dream implies inequality, while at the same time reinforcing individual
progress, and anti-intellectualism.
The campaign situation in America in 2016 was different from previous years. While
Obama has previously used his "hope and change" rhetoric to bring Americans together, critics
say the Trump campaign is dividing Americans. Trump has repeatedly referred to certain
entities with highly tendentious designations. Like 'criminals and rapists' addressed to Mexican
immigrants. Trump's opponent, Clinton, has also referred to Trump supporters as "a sad bunch
of stuff." It's no wonder, then, that a majority of young Americans claim that the atmosphere
of the 2016 American presidential election has hurt racial relations in America.
The differences in social status and race shown by the couple Carlyle and Anne also
underscore the fundamental cultural problems in American society. How can this problem be
brought into the film without any intention to the audience? When Carlyle and Anne met
Carlyle's father and mother, of course they did not accept Anne as someone who deserved to
be with Carlyle. It is a very different situation and it's trying to normalize. History records that
America has succeeded in having a black president for the first time several years ago, but in
fact it is not a guarantee of the disappearance of inner racial tensions in America. A survey
conducted by Quinnipiac found that 80% of white voters were bored with the harmonious lure
of presidential candidates (Mccaskill, 2017). It is undeniable that the American dream in
American society is nonsense. Interestingly, Trump supporters see Trump's political and
economic position as different from previous presidential candidates.
Carlyle's romance with Anne represents the ideal that the American dream has been
trying to realize. That equality is not just a slogan or a lure that traps adherents of the American
dream into false hope. The American Dream views all those who believe in it as entitled to
progress and develop. When The Greatest Showman presents the story of Carlyle and Anne,
the intent to be conveyed is of course very thick with human values. When many people look
down on black Americans or immigrants and think they do not deserve to have a decent life in
America, Carlyle comes across as a hero who comes and protects them. Carlyle's presence in
this scene may be intended to represent white people who still have empathy and sympathy for
black people. However, while this film portrays the positive side of the affection shown to
black people, at the same time it also reminds how discrimination against these people has
persisted for a long time.

It is a fact that not all white people discriminate against black people, but not a few do.
Carlyle showed this situation during Jenny Lind's appearance. Carlyle who was standing beside
Anne slowly grabbed Anne's hand at that moment. But then Carlyle suddenly let go of Anne's
hand after Carlyle's parents found out. Anne, who realized this, was disappointed and left
Carlyle. This time, The Greatest Showman features two personalities that Carlyle owns. When
Carlyle was previously seen fighting for Anne, now it seemed as if things had turned around
and Carlyle was not sincere to Anne. The Greatest Showman shows two possibilities that occur
almost simultaneously, namely the positive and negative sides. The positive side is that there
is hope for black people who have been discriminated against in society. While the negative
side is that there is no definite guarantee of that hope so far. There are times when they get
support from society and white people, but also sometimes they experience unpleasant
experiences because of society itself.
Carlyle and Anne's romance is a beautiful harmony and a state of bias. Carlyle's attitude
towards Anne featured two confusing thoughts, between belief and doubt. Anne could have
accepted Carlyle no matter what he did to her. But then Carlyle himself shows his uncertainty
by letting go of Anne's hand when his parents see them. In a wider scope, The Greatest
Showman wants to give peace to the audience about the equality that Carlyle demonstrated to
Anne. The American dream will always promise opportunity and equality, but Americans have
always questioned where it lies. Because so far what has been in the real world is a beautiful
dream that can be achieved by people who have greater privileges. These privileges are in the
form of material ownership, family, and even race. Not all of these privileges can be owned by
everyone, especially race. No human being can choose to be born with a certain skin color.
4.4.2. Celebrating Humanity

Bennet: “But, by putting all kinds on stage with you, all colors, shapes, sizes, presenting
them as equals. Why, another critic might have even called it ‘a celebration of
humanity’ ” (01:20:21).
The term ‘celebration of humanity’ is closely related to the statement of equality in
society. Somehow, this phrase is mainly highlighted as one of The Greatest Showman film
quotes. This quote was stated by James Gordon Bennet when he met Barnum after the circus
building burned out. Bennet mentions ‘the celebration of humanity’ because the sideshow that
Barnum held as the entertainment of the city of Manhattan involves people with many
characteristics, especially physical characteristics. The only thing they have in common is the
uniqueness of each, which is different and is more commonly considered strange by the general
public. For example, Lettie Lutz has a beard even though he is a woman, Irish has an abnormal
height, Walter the Dog Boy and many more. James Gordon Bennet, portrayed by Paul Sparks,
is a critic that often covered Barnum's circus and portrayed it negatively. He is the one that
gave Barnum the idea to call his show a 'circus'. Bennet reviews everything Barnum does and
he is truly the biggest critic. Barnum is trying to impress Bennet but fails, only after Jenny joins
the show that Barnum held. Later, Bennet and Barnum start to be connected.
Bennet's role in The Greatest Showman is quite important and interesting. At first, he
was a figure who seemed to be in opposition to Barnum. Bennet considered the show that
Barnum held was a fake. He accuses what Barnum is giving to society as false pleasure, and
Barnum is deceiving society. Bennet often appears in brief camera shots during performances.
Bennet appears in the same two moments, namely at the performance of a show held by
Barnum, the circus and Jenny’s singing. In the two screenshots, Bennet appears in a dark,
shaded light. Bennett's existence seemed to be in the shadows and tucked away among the
crowd of people. Even so, Bennet's eyes tread so keenly observing the show. He can write from
Barnum's show if searching for every possible flaw or mistake. Of all the scenes that feature
Bennet, all of them show Bennet as an antagonist who is always opposite to Barnum. On the
other hand, Barnum as the protagonist, always manages to find a solution to Bennet's adverse
judgment.
Picture 8. Bennet enjoys Jenny’s singing.
Picture 9. Bennet notes a review on Barnum’s circus.
Bennet often appears in the scene that uses harsh-lighting type. This type of lighting set
up creates a blasting and concentrating smaller sources of key light onto subject while reducing
the fill around it. However, the set that Bennet in is using more balance light. Harsh-lighting
technique results more attention to specific part of the frame by creating dark shadows around
it, forming suspense and dramatic effects along the way. The tense of dramatic is more
highlighted with the expression of Bennet. His face is steady with head and eyes facing the
same direction to the stage (Picture 8). This scene happens when Jenny Lind performs her first
singing. Bennet sits steadily like the other audiences, he is a member of the enthusiastic crowd.
This look shows that Bennet is enjoying the show and putting his attention on every
performance. A contrast look is presented on Picture 9 where Bennet are seen between the
crowd. It is when he attends the circus show.
The shifting of Bennet's support onto Barnum's side is giving a meaning. Bennett, who
initially opposed Barnum's performance, suddenly supports when Barnum presents Jenny as
the new idol of society. From then on, Bennett starts to side with Barnum. Even, Bennet is able
to give praise and input to Barnum about the show that is held. Bennett here sees Barnum no
longer as a mere object of criticism, but also sees him as a fellow art connoisseur.
4.4.3. Relieve the Audience
The film The Greatest Showman takes its main setting in the city of Manhattan in the
span of 1850-1870 when America was just entering the modern era. Although the span of the
year from its release is almost two centuries apart, the message conveyed by this film is very
relevant to the current situation. This film sees the American dream as something very sacred,
especially through the thoughts and actions of the main characters. Hugh Jackman managed to
portray the figure of Barnum who is ambitious, confident, and hardworking. It is as if that is
the American ideal that other nations know, and rightly so. The audience who watches Barnum
seemed to be reminded again that Barnum was a real representation of Americans. With all the
unyielding attitude one has, one can achieve success and happiness in the future.
In the cycle of American history, historian Arthur Schlesinger argues that change in
America occurred in a cycle that did not always progress, but also sometimes experienced
setbacks (Schlesinger, 1999). When it comes to the American dream at the time of Trump's
presidential election, that is the setback. So far, the American dream has been judged to belong
to white people, but non-white Americans also feel that the American dream is not on their
side. Clinton's slogan “Strong Together” which was meant to reunite American society was not
enough to convince the public. Of course, this situation is also understandable because Clinton
only promised peace, not the peak of happiness as stated in the American dream ideology.
The shadow of future success haunts American society. Along with time movement,
the epoch of the American dream was developed by technology development and mind change.
Economic change influenced the way people think. Some people become materialistic and even
more greedy. This condition must be different from the old values that lived in ancient America
when James Truslow Adam stated the American dream. People have owned their minds and
preferences; the definition of the American dream now depends on the individual's economic
condition. And then many people speculated that the matter is to be the prosperous people.
“In the long run, it is only to the man of morality that wealth comes. We believe in the
harmony of God’s universe. We know that it is only by working along His law natural
and spiritual that we can work with efficiency. Only by wealth of nature can be
revealed… Godliness is in league with riches… Material prosperities is helping to make
the national character sweeter, more joyous, more unselfish. This is my answer to the
question as to the relation of material prosperity to morality (Bellah: 75).
The writer and director of The Greatest Showman may well have realized how
important the ideological message of the American dream is in this film. Then the ideological
message is conveyed in a way that can be accepted by the audience. Not only conveyed but
also received and absorbed. Like when Barnum came to see Carlyle at a bar to ask her to
negotiate. At that time their conversation was conveyed with a song called "The Other Side".
(Barnum)
Right here, right now

I put the offer out
I don't want to chase you down
I know you see it
You run with me
And I can cut you free
Out of the drudgery and walls you keep in
So trade that typical for something colorful
And if it's crazy, live a little crazy
You can play it sensible, a king of conventional
Or you can risk it all and see
Don't you wanna get away from the same old part you gotta play
'Cause I got what you need, so come with me and take the ride
It'll take you to the other side
'Cause you can do like you do
Or you can do like me
Stay in the cage, or you'll finally take the key
Oh, damn! Suddenly you're free to fly
It'll take you to the other side
(Carlyle)
Okay, my friend, you want to cut me in
Well I hate to tell you, but it just won't happen
So thanks, but no
I think I'm good to go
'Cause I quite enjoy the life you say I'm trapped in
Now I admire you, and that whole show you do
You're onto something, really it's something
But I live among the swells, and we don't pick up peanut shells
I'll have to leave that up to you
Don't you know that I'm okay with this uptown part I get to play
'Cause I got what I need and I don't want to take the ride
I don't need to see the other side
So go and do like you do
I'm good to do like me
Ain't in a cage, so I don't need to take the key
Oh, damn! Can't you see I'm doing fine
I don't need to see the other side
Now is this really how you like to spend your days?
Whiskey and misery, and parties and plays
If I were mixed up with you, I'd be the talk of the town
Disgraced and disowned, another one of the clowns
(Barnum)
But you would finally live a little, finally laugh a little
Just let me give you the freedom to dream
And it'll wake you up and cure your aching
Take your walls and start 'em breaking

Now that's a deal that seems worth taking
But I guess I'll leave that up to you
(The Other Side)
The situation at that time was that Barnum needed Carlyle's help to promote the circus
to a wider audience, even outside America. Carlyle is seen as a very appropriate figure because
he is a person who is already well-known in the city as a show host, besides that he also has a
higher social class. Barnum was eager to get Carlyle to join his show.
The clip begins with Barnum and Carlyle at a bar, discussing a potential business deal
for Barnum’s show. This is shown to the audience by Barnum saying “Right here, right now, I
put the offer out” suggesting that Barnum is offering Carlyle a deal of some kind. The shots of
these scenes are using dark colors, to convey that the situation is serious. Then, through the
lyrics of the song "And I cut you free, out of the drudgery and walls you keep in", Barnum
thought that Carlyle was actually bored with his current position. Instead Carlyle was
imprisoned within the wall that blocked him from the world. This can be known because
Carlyle is a rich person with too many relations, his name and reputation are already known all
over the city. This is also connoted through the clothes worn by Carlyle who at that time wore
a red or purple hat and scarf. During this time period, only rich, respected people or royalty
wore those colours. This denotes that Carlyle is rich and of a higher status than Barnum which
wearing a dark-greenish colour. This color was more commonly used by people at that time.
The splendor and sparkling light of popularity did not make Carlyle satisfied and feel quite
happy. He does things not for his personal pleasure, but to satisfy many people.
Image 10. Carlyle with red hat and scarf.
Image 11. Barnum with dark-greenish vest.
Barnum offers Carlyle the lure of money, but more important in the deal is a freedom,
a feeling of enthusiasm unlike any before, and of course the satisfaction of the wondrous. All
that is promised by Barnum. This can be seen when Barnum says “So trade that typical for
something colorful” and “Don't you wanna get away from the same old part you gotta play”.
Carlyle wants to refute Barnum with the words "If I were mixed up with you, I'd be the talk of
the town", "Disgraced and disowned, another one of the clowns". Through the continuation of
the lyrics, Carlyle stated that she did not agree with Barnum's allegations. That the deal will be
dangerous to his position, Carlyle might lose his dignity, image, and the relations that he
already built this time. The camera angle takes a close shot of Carlyle’s face and obscures
Barnum behind, giving the focus on Carlyles face expression. The lighting put side light
lighting for the scene. Sidelight lighting puts the source of lighting on either side of the subject,
can be left or right side. Sidelight creates a shadow on one half of the subject and sculpts the
subject’s features. The contrast look between light and shadow creates a sense of mystery.
Although the shadow on Carlyle’s face is not really contrast, it is enough to give the impression
of mystery of what Carlyle decides about Barnum’s offer.
Through a brief negotiation with the song “The Other Side”, The Greatest Showman
again gave a message to the audience that everyone actually has a choice. Furthermore, the
choice may require sacrifice. Like Carlyle who had to sacrifice his reputation as an upper class,
in order to try something different from his life so far. Likewise with Barnum who had to lower
his ego so that Carlyle would cooperate. However, all of this can be done if it is based on the
encouragement of self-will and determination to move from a better condition than before.
From Carlyle’s choice, the film endorses that actually wealth, reputation, and popularity are
not absolute and can be replaced. There is something more important like self-expression and
satisfaction that needs to be fought for.
Carlyle then revalidates this message when Barnum’s circus was burned down by the
masses that hate them. The fire destroyed all the circus properties and even the show building.
Carlyle: “You know Barnum, when first I met you. I had an inheritance, acclaim, an
invitation to every party in town. And now, thanks to you, all that’s gone. All
that’s left is friendship, love, and work that I adore. You brought joy into my
life” (01:31:13).
Carlyle had no regrets about his deal with Barnum as they negotiated at the bar. Instead,
he felt grateful that Barnum had brought him into the life he was currently living. Happiness
over material things, relationships, and a reputation that Carlyle had so far lacked true serenity.
He just found peace in friendship, affection, and the work he wanted to do. All of this happened
after Carlyle decided to step out of her comfort zone, at the expense of all the privileges he had
saved.
Then the story continues after the fire problem is found a solution, the circus can be
held again with the same excitement. This time it was even more memorable because they
returned to the stage after going through a difficult phase and a lot of sadness. This is all known
because the fire makes Barnum despair and the circus he had built was over. At the same time,
his household with Charity is in big trouble after his kiss with Jenny is printed as scandal news.
Charity knows the news. This condition made Barnum worse off. Moreover, Carlyle was also
seriously injured and lost consciousness for several days after he tried to get out of the burning
building. However, in the end it was Philip Carlyle's contribution, he gives some of the money
he saved to set up the circus tent and everything in it. By that decision, Carlyle makes the circus
back to the show again.
The circus is finally on. In the middle of the show, Carlyle, who is watching at the side
of the stage, is approached by Barnum. Barnum hands Carlyle the hat and cane he used to wear
during the show. When Carlyle receives Barnum's hat, he asks Barnum "What will be you
doing?". Barnum then replies "Watching my girls grow up". After that Carlyle runs to the center
of the action stage in place of Barnum immediately. Meanwhile Barnum also rushes out to his
daughter’s ballet performance.
Barnum’s decision indicates the shape of the American dream he had in mind. After a
long journey and a long process that he goes through, he finally finds success through the circus
that he built. Surprisingly, after all the treasures that he once dreamed of having succeeded,
Barnum feels something very precious is lost, his family. Then for that reason Barnum hands
over responsibility for the circus to Carlyle. Barnum wants to return to his family. The sentence
that Barnum says to Carlyle 'Watching my girls grow up' means more than just knowing his
daughter getting older. In a deeper meaning, Barnum wants to build a happy family, by
spending more time together, going through quality times, and giving full love to his children.
The Greatest Showman endorses that finally American dream is not limited to material
success and popularity. Meanwhile, the media also provides examples of the American dream
gone awry in versions of the money-can’t-buy-happiness narrative. Fitzgerald’s The Great
Gatsby is the most popular literary example. In fact, in real life, money talks everywhere it be.
America has a trillion-dollar deficit, troubled Social Security, political polarization, middle
class erosion, financial collapse, the Great Recession, and unemployment are broader concerns
of American society (Courchene, 2011). American dream is not like what it is expected to be
and Americans questioned it seriously (Winn, 2007).
In the midst of the problems experienced by the United States of America, the middle
class public certainly feels the impact. The American dream had gone too far for them to
achieve. However, the film The Greatest Showman wants to remind the audience, especially
Americans, that there are other factors in the American dream, namely family happiness and
freedom of expression. It was realized through Barnum and Carlyle. Barnum chose his own
path by leaving the circus and giving it to Carlyle, in order to return to his family and be with
his wife and children. Meanwhile, Carlyle decides to get out of the bonds of his reputation and
social class relations in order to do the job that he wants and with friends and people he loves.
The position of the film The Greatest Showman clearly gives escapism to the audience.
This film celebrates the outcast and teaches the audiences about being enough (Toyama, 2018).
The roles of Barnum and Carlyle are the weapons of this film. Through their characterization
and the results of the decisions they make, ideological messages are conveyed to the audience.
Their differences went from being something to be ashamed of to something to be celebrated.
This film also gives extraordinary feelings and emotions. So many American audiences are in
a state of skepticism about the American dream, and this film is a real escape for them. The
embodiment of hard work and hope, the American dream, is a sacred and beautiful one that
influences actors to do something greater than what they have done before. It can also be a
suggestion for the audience to live what they want to become, even though the circumstances
in the U.S are not really supportive for the middle class society to reach upward mobility.

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a new beginning and a brighter future (Gabrielson, 2009).

4.1. The Representation of the American Dream in The Greatest Showman

4.1.1. Barnum’s Story from Rags to Riches

and work hard to achieve it.

Picture 1. Barnum is reflecting the suit with his body.

Picture 2. Barnum is looking at his broken shoes.

the dream of material success is attached to his appearance.

rather than manage for the fancy dress.

have the money to buy them.

Picture 3. Barnum is seeing the announcement of railroad construction.

Picture 4. Barnum comes back to meet Charity.

The journey of P. T Barnum is getting a new level of struggle after he successfully

luxury house that he has promised Charity long ago.

previously underestimated Barnum's performances, finally admits that Barnum managed to

provide real joy for the people this time.

position by having the horse-drawn carriage shown in Picture 5. Horse-drawn carriage

4.2. The Spirit of American Dream in The Greatest Showman

perseverance, initiative, independence, achievement, and success (Fisher, 1973). Therefore,

things" and being fair to everyone also needs to be considered.

will" (00:23:35-00:23:39). Through Barnum's conversation with Lettie, it can be investigated

in his pursuit of the American dream's success in society (Fisher, 1973).

4.2.2. The Equality of Opportunity

more big fish.

several other figures.

register. Defining opportunity in America, with or without compensating for inequalities in

don’t understand, but they will.” (00:08:27).

sentence expressed by Barnum can be interpreted as a representative of the face of the

wants to be with Anne.

impression of being anxious or frantic to the audiences.

their luck in America.

conditions have changed from time to time.

4.3. Romanticizing the American Dream

According to Cambridge dictionary, romanticizing means to believe that something is

consequences of the decision of character agents. Finally, the audience accepts it as a

suggestion (Fisher, 1982).

creates a feeling of emotional attachment between spectator and performer.

4.3.1. Reviving American Dreams in the Time Crisis

Picture 7. Close shot silhouette of the showman.

the real world of the American audience.

American dream is getting farther from their reality.

Every night I lie in bed

the worries that Charity had before were not a problem.

When the world becomes a fantasy

that can be done is to keep hope and have faith.

the poor. Besides, Anne is black.

finding is not surprising considering America is a place of diversity. In addition, this

are actually tired of inner strife over ethnic relations.

progress, and anti-intellectualism.

of presidential candidates (Mccaskill, 2017). It is undeniable that the American dream in

economic position as different from previous presidential candidates.

persisted for a long time.

experiences because of society itself.

4.4.2. Celebrating Humanity

The term ‘celebration of humanity’ is closely related to the statement of equality in

Picture 8. Bennet enjoys Jenny’s singing.

Picture 9. Bennet notes a review on Barnum’s circus.

crowd. It is when he attends the circus show.

4.4.3. Relieve the Audience

Right here, right now

Take your walls and start 'em breaking

Image 10. Carlyle with red hat and scarf.