The Boys: The Sherman Brothers' Story

The Boys: The Sherman Brothers' Story, a biographical drama film released in 2009, revolves around the complex and tumultuous relationship between Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman, the renowned Sherman Brothers. The film takes audiences through their remarkable journey in the entertainment industry, showcasing their collaborative efforts that led to numerous Oscar and Grammy wins. Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman were born to a family that fostered creativity and an appreciation for music. As young boys, they began experimenting with songwriting and music, often contributing to their parents' social gatherings by performing. This early exposure to music and collaboration eventually led to Robert and Richard forming a partnership that would yield immense success in the world of songwriting. As the story unfolds, we witness the siblings working in various capacities, from working-class jobs to eventually becoming songwriters. Their talent caught the attention of esteemed composers, including George Bruns, which paved the way for them to work on several small projects. Eventually, Robert and Richard joined forces with their brother, Richard H. Sherman – also a musician – and their mother, Tina Sherman, who managed their early endeavors. The Sherman Brothers' big break came when Walt Disney himself approached them with an invitation to join his team. Working under the watchful eye of Disney's musical director, George Bruns, they initially faced resistance as "outsiders" trying to fit into the Disney family. Robert B. Sherman took on a pivotal role in the company, eventually rising to become Disney's main lyricist. Their unique voice and creative approach helped set Disney apart from other family animation films. One of the pivotal moments that marked the onset of their success occurred when the Sherman Brothers were entrusted with writing the songs for Disney's popular animated film 'Mary Poppins.' This movie catapulted the brothers to stardom as writers, with songs like 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,' 'A Spoonful of Sugar,' and 'Chim Chim Cher-ee' showcasing their exceptional skill. Throughout the film, the complicated dynamics between Robert B. Sherman and Richard M. Sherman are brought into focus. While they share immense creative potential, their professional relationship becomes fraught with tension and personal conflicts, stemming from differing working styles and personal philosophies. Robert Sherman has consistently demonstrated a greater enthusiasm for adapting to changes and experimenting with new ideas than Richard, whose affinity for stability and a well-defined routine led to disagreements between them. As a result, they occasionally struggled to reconcile their visions for a song or musical. This friction is often evident in the film, and it provides a poignant backdrop to their otherwise remarkable accomplishments. Their most notable and beloved collaborations continued throughout the 1960s and 1970s, yielding an impressive array of hits and critical acclaim. Films such as 'The Jungle Book,' 'The Aristocats,' and 'Bedknobs and Broomsticks' featured their memorable songs and underscored the Sherman Brothers' capacity for capturing the universal essence of children's stories. As the story reaches its climax, Robert and Richard Sherman share their perspectives on their complex, lifelong bond. The film highlights their experiences as songwriters, offering a glimpse into the intricacies of collaborating with a family member. The film ends with the Sherman Brothers reminiscing about their time at Disney and the impact that 'Mary Poppins' had on their careers. Their musical legacy continues to inspire generations of artists and songwriters, solidifying their place in the world of entertainment. Ultimately, The Boys: The Sherman Brothers' Story presents a nuanced portrayal of the trials and tribulations experienced by the Sherman Brothers, underscoring the essence of their lifelong bond as collaborators, family members, and songwriters. As audiences reflect on their remarkable journey, they cannot help but be touched by the enduring power of their music, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Sherman Brothers.