It’s the halloween season and last month Netflix came out with a new show focused on three ghosts and the “lifer”(ghost slang for someone who is alive) that can see them. It was directed by Kenny Ortega who was also responsible for the movies, High School Musical, and Descendants, which can only tell you that the music in this show is amazing. He also includes LGBTQ+ characters which shows the growth in which the film industry has gone through. The show has something for everyone and you should definitely watch it. 

The show may be meant for a younger audience, but there are some scenes that are truly heart wrenching. Most of the people who are in love with the show are in their teenage/adult years. The characters in the show are very interesting and they have amazing character development. 

The acting is also fantastic. Madison Reyes, the actress for “Julie” is a 16 year old girl. This is her first role in any professional acting, and she killed it. In an interview she stated that she was very excited that there was a Latina lead that she could audition for, so that her little sister can see someone like her on TV. Charlie Gillespie, the actor for “Luke” has been involved with music since he was a little child—which explains why his musical performance in the show exceeds expectations. Not only do those two star in the show, Owen Patrick Joyner of Knight Squad and Jeremy Shada of Voltron: Legendary Defender and Adventure Time are in the show as well. All of the acting is wonderful and makes the show feel real.

You wouldn’t expect it, but the songs are incredible as well. The very first song sung by Julie in the show “Wake Up” is what started her whole musical awakening. As the first song we hear Julie sing, it really introduces you to how great her voice is. The most emotional song would definitely be “Unsaid Emily” which is about Luke’s mother. The sentiments behind the song and the way Charlie (Luke) sings it will easily make you burst into tears. All the songs in the show are outstanding.

When all of the actors sing, they put their heart and soul into the music. You can easily see that they care about what they are doing. In “Stand Tall” you can easily see the emotion in the actors’ eyes, which makes you believe that there are three ghosts and a human performing on stage. Madison (Julie) and Charlie (Luke) even wrote a song, “Perfect Harmony” for the show, which clearly shows their dedication towards their roles and their passion towards music. 

The show was based off of the Brazilian series: Julie e os Fantasmas. There are many differences between the two shows due to Kenny Ortega putting his own magnificent spin on the show and updating it for modern audiences. 

Hopefully season two of the show will be out by September of 2021. Take the time to watch and listen to the soundtrack, we have a whole year of waiting to fill. The more you watch and listen to it, the better the chances of the show being renewed. 

In the end you will totally become a “Fantom” too. And if you have any theories, feel free to share them!