Review of Nine (2009) by Philip J — 23 Jun 2010
The cast is beautiful, the production design is gorgeous, the performances are decent, the choreography is flashy, and yet the film is surprisingly anemic for a musical. This is probably the most boring musical I've seen in quite a while. What's missing about the film is the emotional connection the audience has to the characters. Yes, we understand that reknowned filmmaker Guido Contini (played adequately by Daniel Day Lewis) is probably burned out and is going through a troubled marriage. Yes, we understand that Guido Contini indulges in a series of musical fantasies involving other beautiful women. But somehow, we just don't care. We don't find ourselves rooting for Contini to succeed.
Another problem with this film is that it lacks any truly memorable songs. Despite the fact that most of the performers in this movie are adequate singers, none of the songs they perform truly stand out. The fast paced song and dance numbers lack energy and the slower songs lack emotional resonance, with the possible exception of Nicole Kidman's solo.
It's a shame that this movie did not live up to its potential. It's beautiful on the outside, but ultimately lacking heart and soul.
This review of Nine (2009) was written by Philip J on 23 Jun 2010.
Nine has generally received mixed reviews.
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