Review of Umberto D. (1952) by Jonathan H — 23 Mar 2004

Really, 9.5/10* but only for some minor issues I had.

I had a great cry during the finale in the park. I have a little dog I love a great deal, and have been to the place Umberto was in during that scene.

Let's just say I knew more than I should about the level of emotion going on.

I gave my dog a treat from my dinner plate after that scene and could not eat the rest of it. A little too close to home for me :-/.

The only technical issue I had was with the landlady. I needed either a little less of her, or a little more. Either would have worked better.

De Sica is a master at human emotions. Realism is my favorite, and Italy is so well represented in his films.

I still think The Bicycle Thief was a twinge better. Umberto D rivals Wild Strawberries now as my favorite film on aging.