Review of Malena (2000) by Ka Wai L — 21 Aug 2008
Giuseppe Tornatore masterfully directs Monica Bellucci and introduces us to young Giuseppe Sulfaro, whose acting chops are not to be overlooked in this beautifully told story. So good is this film, that it garnered 2 academy award and 2 golden globes nominations for its cinematography (done by Lajos Koltai) and its score (by Ennio Morricone), in addition to best foreign film.
The story takes place in the sleepy town of Castelcuto, which Mr. Koltai makes resemble a classic painting. It tells the tale of the most beautiful woman there and her most ardent adimirer. We get to see what each of them goes through while living there.
We also see what kind of people the town infested with. The score by Mr. Morricone automatically tranports you back to Sicily during WWII, and that, the story, and the acting make this film a MUST SEE.
If there is movie to see Monica Bellucci shine, in every sese of the word, this is it. Tornatore captures Bellucci's essence, beauty and skill in a manner rarely seen in more mainstream films she has subsequently acted in.
It's difficult not to feel what the men and women in the town feel towards her. It's what making and seeing movies is all about!
This review of Malena (2000) was written by Ka Wai L on 21 Aug 2008.
Malena has generally received positive reviews.
Was this review helpful?
