(1966)2.5Craig ButlerA television landmark when it aired in 1966, Barbra Streisand: Color Me Barbra no longer packs the same punch it did back then. At the time, Color was fresh and exciting, not only because Streisand herself was still a new talent but because many of the gimmicks that the special employed (such as eschewing any co-stars, filming the first act on location at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, etc.) were revolutionary. Still, even with the passage of time, Color is a real treat. Of course, those who dislike the star will find nothing here to make them warm to her, but for those who appreciate her gifts or are neutral to her, Color will be immensely entertaining. Streisand is in fabulous voice throughout, and it's fascinating to watch the still-developing persona in this early stage. Of the three acts, only the second falls a little flat. Its opening monologue is too coy and doesn't show Streisand to her best. When the singing starts, things pick up considerably, but the circus theme wears a little thin after a while. Much better are the opening Philadelphia Museum sequence (which showcases both the star and the setting) and the closing concert sequence. There are numerous highlights throughout, including a mesmerizing Op-Art "Gotta Move," a captivating "Where or When," an amusing "Sam, You Made the Pants Too Long," an affecting "I Stayed Too Long at the Fair," a rousing "Any Place I Hang My Hat Is Home," and a searing "Starting Here, Starting Now." Color Me Barbra may be dated, but as a showcase for a unique talent, it still works.
