Broadway enthusiasts have exciting news as the filmed version of the acclaimed musical revival, Merrily We Roll Along, is set to premiere in cinemas tomorrow, December 5, 2025. This production of the classic 1981 musical by Stephen Sondheim and George Furth ran successfully on Broadway from September 2023 until July 2024, featuring an impressive cast with Lindsay Mendez, Jonathan Groff, and Daniel Radcliffe in lead roles.
Jonathan Groff takes on the role of Frank Shepard, a successful composer turned film producer in 1977. His former best friend and lyricist, Daniel Radcliffe as Charley Kringas, accuses him of selling out. Meanwhile, their mutual friend, theater critic Mary Flynn, portrayed by Lindsay Mendez, struggles with alcoholism as their lives unravel. The unique narrative structure of the musical reveals their intertwined lives by moving backward in time, showcasing how their friendship deteriorated.
Critical Acclaim and Theatrical Success
Despite its initial struggles as a financial and critical flop upon its debut in 1981, the revival of Merrily We Roll Along has garnered significant acclaim. The production achieved record-breaking attendance at the Hudson Theatre, with audiences flocking to see the show. Its success led Sony Pictures Classics to collaborate with Fathom Entertainment to release a filmed version in theaters across multiple countries, including the U.S., Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.
The decision to film the stage production provides a rare opportunity for theater lovers to experience Broadway magic on the big screen. While the film is currently only available in theaters, there is anticipation regarding its future streaming availability. Industry insiders expect that it will eventually be available on platforms such as Netflix.
Future Streaming Plans
At present, Merrily We Roll Along is not streaming on Netflix or Amazon Prime Video, as it is currently focused on its theatrical release. The only option for viewing the musical is in cinemas. As the Broadway production closed in July 2024, fans are eager to know when they can watch it from home.
Once released for home media, it is likely that the film will stream on Netflix in early 2026. The platform has a partnership with Sony Pictures, giving it rights to Sony films in the “Pay 1” window, which follows the home media release. A recent example includes the film On Swift Horses, which appeared on Netflix approximately four months after its theatrical debut. Following this trend, viewers can expect Merrily We Roll Along to be available for streaming around April 2026.
For those eager to experience the film sooner, it is essential to check local listings for theater showings. Fans can utilize services like Fandango to find showtimes in their area. In the meantime, the excitement surrounding the film adaptation signifies a growing appreciation for theater adaptations in the film industry.
