If given the opportunity to name one of the best films ever made, many would justifiably cite Robert Wise's The Sound of Music (1965) as their favorite. Adapted from the 1959 stage play of the same name, the film tells the true story of the Von Trap family. It tells the story of Andrews' Maria, who leaves an Australian convent to look over the children of a widower in the face of an impending invasion by the Nazis.
Upon release, the film was a major critical success. It swept that years Academy Awards, winning the awards for Best Picture, Best Director for Wise, Best Music, Best Sound Recording, and Best Film Editing. It was nominated for the award for Best Leading Actress for Julie Andrews, Best Supporting Actress Peggy Wood, Best Color Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design. Reads the Rotten Tomatoes critics consensus of The Sound of Music: "Unapologetically sweet and maybe even a little corny, The Sound of Music will win over all but the most cynical filmgoers with its classic songs and irresistible warmth."
Not only that, The Sound of Music is the sixth highest-grossing film of all time (adjusted for inflation). Against a budget of only $8.2 million, The Sound of Music made back $282.6 million at the box office (this figure has not been adjusted for inflation).
