Review of Cinema Paradiso (1988) by Sol H — 08 Nov 2011
This is very much a film of three acts. The first act is remarkable and on its own, would serve as a masterpiece in cinema.
The second act, whilst not bad, brings the first one down a great deal by being overly simplistic, cliched and drawing out a story that didn't need to be continued beyond the first segment. The cliches of it are intentional, as a love-letter to classic cinema, but this clashes with the more realistic and down to Earth take of the first segment.
The third segment feels equally unnecessary and whilst it brings the film to a clear and nicely constructed conclusion, it leaves a really bitter taste in the mouth for the viewer regarding a revelation about one of the central characters. You can appreciate what the film is trying to say, but frankly it's something that I and most people seem to disagree with - even those who love the film.
Altogether, the last 2 acts bring the first act down a few pegs, but they're still the ingredients of a great film - just not as great as act one would have been on its own. 'Cinema Paradiso' is an interesting exploration of our relationships with people and with the arts, but it's not one that works as perfectly as the film's highly regarded nature might lead you to believe.
8/10.
This review of Cinema Paradiso (1988) was written by Sol H on 08 Nov 2011.
Cinema Paradiso has generally received very positive reviews.
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