Jan 29 2009
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
We’ve all had those thoughts. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to drop whatever we’re doing, hop on a plane and wake up in the ever intoxicating Barcelona. That’s a lot what Vicky Cristina Barcelona is really like. It’s an addicting, sensual trek through this beautiful, mysterious land. The city, and film are both infused with the groundings of art, which is the perfect escape for anyone on a warm sunny afternoon.
He story involves two young American girls desperately looking for those days of excitement in their ending days of youth. Both are looking for their own adventures in their own ways. While Vicky is about to be engaged to the man whom she thinks is of her dreams, Cristina is looking for that path in life that will ultimately bring her to her own purpose on this planet. Fear, hope, love, and that sense of purpose are the main themes you will find here. And all are displayed with such realism and beauty that you will surely find yourself identifying with at least most of the time. And when the two girls meet a mysterious painter, their lives will changed forever.
This really is one of those wandering souls’ perfect scenarios for their own life. And I really cannot decide if this is a great commentary on ourselves or just a beautifully painting in which is to remind us that this is possible.
Woody Allen has definitely used all his inspiring that are coming from Europe to good use. He has found his muse yet again with this delightful journey. Both Scarlett Johannson and Rebecca Hall are joys to watch. Javier Bardem is charming, and often times hilarious. But it’s Penelope Cruz who really steals the show. She’s a neurotic mess, that it’s amazing to watch.
This film is beautiful, enchanting, sweet, and charming. All great things when looking for a tale to take us away to another land indeed. It can be described best as being a cool, refreshing drink on a hot summer day. It’s a comfort and a joy to immerse yourself fully in.
The DVD sadly offers no features though. There are a few language tracks but that’s about it. The picture and sound quality are quite good though. If you feel like you don’t really want to shell out the 20 bucks to buy it now, I recommend waiting til it drops a little, or better yet, simply renting it from your local video store. It really is a delight.
The only down side that I found, was that the time frame in the film feels off. While the two girls are only spending July and August in Barcelona, I must admit, that by the end of the film, it feels like they’ve spent closer to six months there! But, that would be my only concern, and is quite minor when you look at all the amazing treats Vicky Cristina Barcelona has to offer. It’s a journey of pure pleasure that I highly recommend.
Happy viewing everyone!
