Thursday, March 12, 2009

Life is Beautiful DVD Review (Italy)



Life is Beautiful

DVD Review by Lauren
Country: Italy

Summary from Amazon (Product Description):

An inspired motion picture masterpiece, LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL was nominated for 7 Academy Awards(R) -- winning 3 Oscars, including one for Best Actor Robert Benigni. In this extraordinary tale, Guido (Benigni) -- a charming but bumbling waiter who's gifted with a colorful imagination and an irresistible sense of humor -- has won the heart of the woman he loves and created a beautiful life for his young family. But then, that life is threatened by World War II ... and Guido must rely on those very same strengths to save his beloved wife and son from an unthinkable fate! Honored with an overwhelming level of critical acclaim, this truly exceptional, utterly unique achievement will lift your spirits and capture your heart!


I decided to post that above to help you learn a bit about the overall story, as I wasn't entirely sure how to go about doing it myself. Life is Beautiful was an amazing and powerful film. Benigni did a tremendous job as director and actor. The movie has comedy, definitely, but it also has heart and you realize the sadness and pain behind what Guido's character is not telling his young son.

I've heard various people's thoughts on this film, with some liking it and others thinking it's not appropriate. As you can already tell, I think it's a fantastic film. It still shows the horror of living in a concentration camp, and gives a new view on WWII with the types of lives Itlalians lived.

If you've seen this film, what did you think? If you haven't, I highly recommend it. The beginning is more light then the second half, just to forewarn you (I was told as well, so I was prepared).

I just want to mention that Giorgio Cantarini, who plays the son of Guido, was absolutely amazing. It's hard to remember that he was only about four or five, I believe, when they filmed this movie. He did a great job and was so adorable!

Recommended Film!