Despite the critics' uncertainties about this one, and despite the fact that it isn't as brilliant a film as "Life is Beautiful" this one is still definitely worth watching. Benigni gives a genuinely compassionate performance; his humour heightens the effect of the pathos rather than detracting from it. I also enjoyed the fact that everything is not tied up in a neat little bow at the end, although you can guess at what will probably happen.
For some people, Benigni may be too over the top; for others this very exuberance will make them smile. If anything in this movie he has matured as a performer; the serious scenes are well done and believable throughout.
Shame if this one dies due to mixed reviews; its certainly more enjoyable than your average Hollywood pulp.
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