Sad, funny, and poignant! A triumph for the celebration of love

Rating: 9/10 (11 February 1999)

In a world of Godzillas,and Patch Adams', it is encouraging to know that there are still film-makers like Roberto Benigni who have a genuine love and feel for the cinema. The performances and screenplay are magical, especially the scenes where our hero attempts to court the women of his dreams....it's classic comedy that can be compared to some of Chaplin's best. It has an irresistable charm. I do think however, that the first half is a little better than the second half of this film. The first half shows that this man has only ONE weapon that can get him through the trials of life, and that is his gift of humour! The second half shows how he uses that humour as the greatest gift a father can give to his own son. I believe the scene where our hero acts an enterpreter for a Nazi guard will be a film classic. And for all the critics who attacked this film for its disrespectful treatment of the memory of the holocaust; I felt it was handled with sensitivity,and sincerity. I did not once feel uncomfortable watching it, nor did some of the older Jewish people that I know who have seen it. I say Bravo! and congratulations to Roberto Benigni! For a funny, thoughtful, moving, and VERY BRAVE film. I was delighted to see it awarded with its seven Academy Award nominations.