The Greatest Showman vs Reality: A Contrast The Greatest Showman, a musical biopic about the life of P.T. Barnum, has captivated audiences with its catchy tunes and stunning visuals. However, it has also been criticized for its romanticized portrayal of Barnum and for ignoring the darker aspects of his life and career. In this article, we will contrast the movie’s depiction of Barnum with the reality of his life and legacy.