Evita: Madonna Does Okay, But Patti Lupone Still Reigns Supreme

Okay, peeps, so I finally re-watched "Evita" the movie the other night. I remember being pretty hyped for it back in '96 cuz, well, Madonna. And honestly, she does a decent job. I mean, it's no Patti LuPone on stage – nobody can touch that woman's ferocity – but Madge definitely brought the ambition and the…hair. The whole balcony scene, singing "Don't Cry For Me Argentina," still gives me chills, even if I kinda picture Patti snarling her way through it in my head at the same time. Antonio Banderas as Che? Now THAT was inspired casting. He brought that Latin fire and that slightly cynical edge that the role needed. Plus, his voice is just chef's kiss. The music itself is, of course, untouchable. Lloyd Webber and Rice knew what they were doing. But the costumes? Oh man, those were divine. Pure, unadulterated 90s glam. I think I wanted every. single. dress. Seriously. The movie definitely has its flaws, though. Some of the pacing feels a little off, and let's be real, it's kinda hard to feel too sorry for Evita when you know the kind of political stuff going on at the time. But as a visual spectacle and a showcase for some truly iconic songs, "Evita" still holds up. Worth a watch if you're feeling nostalgic for big hair, big voices, and questionable historical accuracy. Just don't expect it to be perfect – or Patti Lupone, for that matter. ;)