Review of Life Itself (2018) by Robert M — 28 Sep 2018

One of the best films I've seen in years - great acting (Bening, Issac, Banderas...and an outstanding foreign cast) wonderfully framed photography, some breakthrough stuff in directing - time lapses by filming a (succession of) character morphing while running, etc - thus a smooth treatment of timelines; But the real payoff for the theme that stories are no substitute for life itself which is full of surprises is the script which is always emotionally moving and full of surprises - sure there's a stretch to tierunning, etc - thus a smooth treatment of timelines; But the real payoff for the theme that stories are no substitute for life itself which is full of surprises is the script which is always emotionally moving and full of surprises - sure there's a stretch to tie all the characters together, but it works , keeping good intent by all (there no villains in the piece - except life itself). SEE IT! It's one of the great films!

Only 11% of critics liked it- most felt it "mawkish", overly sentimental; 80% of the audience liked it . I say it is brilliantly scripted - not a wasted moment, spectacularly photographed, directed and edited with pace and surprise - and, most importantly it tells wonderful, complex story that will reduce you to tears, always emotionally true, never strained.

Bob Magnani.

Evergreen, Colorado.