Review of Nine (2009) by Tara H — 15 Mar 2016

I loved this - being a fan of both musicals and classic Italian neo-realist cinema - a grand tribute. Daniel Day-Lewis, Penelope Cruz & Marion Cotillard were fantastic, great to see Italian cinema's goddess, Sophia Loren, back on the screen, and even Judi Dench, who I don't usually care for, was a pleasure to watch.

I can see why it wasn't a massive hit though, as it's very long and doesn't have much plot. Fellini's 8 1/2, the original film, had a lot to say about Italian society in the 50s & 60s, but this is more of a homage to Neo-Realism - and delightful as it is, it's a bit pointless.

However, who cares about that when the music, cast and photography is so breathtaking. Also very thought-provoking on the battle of the sexes, and celebrity - two issues which are as resonant today as they were in 1960.