LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL

"The publicity material for this film describes it as ‘Chaplinesque’. This is accurate in a sense; but don’t think this means Life is Beautiful is a playful romp. It does have echoes of Chaplin - but it is the Chaplin of The Great Dictator rather than The Floorwalker. Co-written, directed by and starring Roberto Benigni - usually thought of as Italy’s answer to Jacques Tati - Life is Beautiful is, in large part, not a comedy. In the first half of the film, the loveable Guido uses his rather offbeat humour and childlike innocence to woo the initially reluctant Dora. There are some genuinely funny moments in this segment; and even though dark undertones of anti-Semitism are present, they are generally swamped by Guido’s charming manner. But in the second half, after the family is sent to a concentration camp and Guido tries desperately to protect his son’s life, the ‘humour’ has a different tone. Guido’s mannerisms and breezy attitude haven’t outwardly changed; but in context, they’re being used for intensely dramatic, not comic, effect. And this is the magic of the film - Benigni has created a deceptively simple story of human dignity and hope that transcends cinematic labels. The heart of the film is Benigni’s wonderful performance as Guido. While the supporting cast is also good, special mention should be made of Giorgio Cantarini who is especially effective as Joshua. Life is Beautiful is a marvellous film that touches and enriches."
David Edwards

"This endlessly creative film bristles with irony – its title a good indication of Benigni’s effortless play with the concept. Life is NOT beautiful, especially for Jews in World War II, unless you paint it so. But while the war is its setting, the film is much fresher than that implies. Nothing will prepare you for Benigni’s extraordinary Guido, and his ability to be at once a fool and the wise man. This is at the heart of the film, the portrayal of a man who is what Shakespeare’s fools were: childlike and foolish, simple on the surface, yet profoundly wise and sensitive in the matters of living life to its full importance. That apparent contradiction is the engine for Life is Beautiful, and – being unique - it will touch you like no other film. The role fits Benigni like a tailored glove, giving his clown-like persona a fitting gravitas, and letting us see compassion and love through his unique, uplifting eyes. Impressively, the film never puts an emotional foot wrong in what is a far more complex and profound work than it appears to be. Moving, exciting, wonderful cinema. It deserves its Grand Jury Prize."
Andrew L. Urban