01/14/2009 (0 of 0 found this helpful)

Not Allen's Best But It's Pretty Good

I knew Woody Allen still has it in him to make a really good film. After the wishy-washy “Scoop” and “Cassandra’s Dream,” a lot of people began to lose hope once again because they wanted a film as great as “Match Point.” “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” is sexy, character-driven and sublime. The premise is two best friends (Rebecca Hall and Scarlett Johansson) spend a summer in Barcelona and unexpectedly fall for an artistic and charismatic Spaniard (Javier Bardem). At first I thought I could relate more with Hall because she’s sensible and she knows exactly what she wants. But as the film went on, I could identify with Johansson more because she doesn’t limit herself by following society’s labels. She’s very open to things that can enlighten her not just intellectually but spiritually as well...

Rating of
3/4 

01/13/2009 (0 of 0 found this helpful)

Soft and subtle as we like it

One of the few films that really dives into the subject of true love. People had this finite idea of finding love in the strangest places. Woody Allen takes you to Barcelona and just makes your heart beat in a strange way. The characters have this soundless enigma in them which is so enchanting to watch. The story is a rollercoaster ride with all the twists and turns at just the right amount. I also got to commend the cinematography because it’s such a soothing sight for sore eyes. Javier Bardem did absolutely great as this casanova with a purpose. It is pleasing to see him in a different light far from his psychopath role in No Country. Rebecca Hall also did an outstanding job playing this subtle yet feisty soon to be married bride. I’m not sure this was Scarlet Johansson’s most notable...

Rating of
2.5/4