Saturday, February 16, 2013

Cinema Paradiso


Cinema Paradiso-1988


Cinema Paradiso is an Oscar-Winning, Italian drama made in 1988. It was directed by Giuseppe Tornatore and starred  Philippe Noiret, Marco Leonardi, Jacques Perrin, Salvatore Cascio, Enzo Cannavale and Antonella Attili.  In the movie a filmmaker recalls his childhood, when he fell in love with the movies at his village's theater and formed a long lasting friendship with the theater's projectionist. It is a beautiful film with a touching story. It is basically a story about life and growing up.
                I first decided to watch Cinema Paradiso because of the soundtrack. I had heard the main theme of the movie and instantly fell in love with the music. When I watched the movie I was not disappointed. In fact, I enjoyed it just as much as Titanic. I always compare other dramas to the 1997 movie Titanic because, in my opinion, it is one of the best dramas ever made.
                One scene in particular really touched me. The main character “Toto” was supposed to buy milk for his mother but instead, he spent the money on the movies. He loved going to the movies but was not allowed to go because they really didn’t have much money. When his mother found out he spent the money on the movies she began to punish him but Alfredo, the projectionist at the cinema, helped him out. That is when their friendship really began.

                Cinema Paradiso was edited to perfection .The director did an awesome job of cutting back and forth from present to past in the movie. He made it clear and precise; I knew what was going on the entire time. The lighting in the movie is beautiful and the director used different camera movements like lengthy tracks, rapidly moving dollies, and rotating perspectives.  All in all, I give Cinema Paradiso a 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

4 comments:

  1. I haven't seen this movie, but after reading this it intrigues me to see it! It sounds very interesting and touching. The scene you chose was very touching and makes me want to see what happens and what the little boy's situation is. Even though I haven't seen it, your review made it seem worth while and worth a watch!

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  2. I am not a fan of foreign films for the most part. I always feel that i miss out on interesting visual aspects because I'm constantly reading subtitles. Based on your review I think I would watch this movie because I can still enjoy it's cinematic effects and brilliant sound track.

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  3. Hey Ali, nice work here. I like this choice of film, too. You seem to challenge yourself with different types of movies--your movie choices will be fun to read. Anyway, good job in this review. I found myself wishing you had more to say in the 4th paragraph. Maybe dedicate a little more space to these ideas and your analysis of these cinematic elements. Nice work!

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  4. I watched the movie last week and I must say, its one of the best films I've ever seen. The story is engaging and well-made, the color of the film is beautiful and the acting of 'Toto' and Alfredo - simply stunning.

    Your review and others works seem good to me. You've started a very good project indeed. But you can add some more words about the movies, your analysis and so on. Carry on, best of luck :)

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