Review of Juliet of the Spirits (1965) by Bob V — 12 Jan 2011
Federico Fellini's surreal, beautiful, philosophical, confessional masterwork about the doubts plaguing a woman (Giulietta Masina, his wife) whose happiness begins to diminish after she begins to fear her husband (Mario Pusi) is having an affair, and seeks comfort in her lively neighbor (Sandra Milo).
The lovely Masina gives a truly masterful performance, enchanting the viewer while holding his attention at all times, despite whatever wonders also fill the screen, and the introduction of her character is one of the great masterpieces of cinema.
This was Fellini's first film an color, and he takes complete advantage of the new medium with heavy, bright colors, lavish sets, otherworldly costumes, and unusual fantasies. It might just be the most sumptuous and visually striking film he ever made.
Masina and Fellini were most likely having marital issues at the time, and, similar to his previous film, 8 1/2, used this movie as a way to simultaneously exorcise their demons and reveal the process that these issues took root and grew to the audience.
Unmissable.
This review of Juliet of the Spirits (1965) was written by Bob V on 12 Jan 2011.
Juliet of the Spirits has generally received very positive reviews.
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