Review of The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988) by Mico S — 23 Dec 2011

Had I not read the book almost immediately before watching the film, this film would probably have gotten a higher rating. The film lacks Kundera's authorial insight, which, to me, is characteristic of the novel's storytelling.

I will not deny, however, that the film, had it been a standalone and not an adaptation, is fine art--not kitsch at all. But being that it is an adaptation, I cannot separate it from the source material, and that makes all the difference. Watch it, sure; it won't be a waste of your time. But to read the book--now that would be a much better experience.