Review of Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) by Stephen M — 12 Apr 2008
Disguised as a "chick flick", this film is a romantic comedy where the romance is one that the great Diane Lane's character has with herself, learning how to be comfortable in her own skin. That is when she can find true happiness. Extraordinary scenery captured by great cinematography, highlighted by an uplifting score, all providing a setting for a whimsical tale told by great acting.
Fans of Frances Mays' original book will want to note that this is a new story, written in the mood of the book; the fictional tale being told here is not from the book itself because the book is more of a book about living in Tuscany, rather than an autobiography. So the writer of the film took the feel of the source material and combined it with a new story about a woman recovering from heartbreak and then named the fictional woman after the book's author, Frances Mays. It's a charming device, combining two wonderful entities.
Under The Tuscan Sun features a delightful cast of international actors, all led by one of today's biggest stars, making it an unusal star vehicle in that it is (oddly) ensemble-esque.
If you are watching the dvd, the director's commentary is really wonderful - I had a great time with this one. The director, by the way, is also the writer: Audrey Wells.
This review of Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) was written by Stephen M on 12 Apr 2008.
Under the Tuscan Sun has generally received positive reviews.
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