Boo-Hoo

Rating: 10/10 (20 February 1999)

As with any film of considerable worth, there will be the disparaging throngs of disheartened, traumatised cynics. The film was not intended as a documentary for the survivors of any holocaust, nor as a self-help video for those overwrought with the horrors of the Nazi massacres. If this is not evident to everyone, that is shameful. 'Life is Beautiful' is just a slice of life and absurdity and how one man handled a horrific situation in the face of protecting his son.
The film does not purport to say that what the father did was wrong nor right, but it opens the world up to interpretation. There are many who may feel that Concentration Camps must be filmed in one specific "Schindler's List" kind of format. Well, for the close minded and blinder-wearing subscribers of such fare, there is a very saddened life awaiting you all.
If the "Holocaust" is too close to your heart, it may be impossible to view the movie in an objective light. "Why isn't it shown in the way I heard about it?" or "Why isn't it filmed the way I remember it?" Well, because you are not Roberto Benigni. You have a different view of how things were, are, and should be. Open your eyes, people, and see another part of life.
For those who missed it, the film is translated as "Life IS Beautiful," not "Life WAS Beautiful," nor "Life SHOULD HAVE BEEN Beautiful." The story is about relationships and the struggles that go on in life presently. It may be a metaphor. Maybe World War II is a tough time for people to associate with. Maybe I am just a cold-hearted uncaring person. Maybe Roberto Benigni is as well. I don't think so, but then again, I am subject to my own opinions.
Don't be afraid of change. Don't be afraid of difference. Don't be afraid of another perspective. Don't be afraid of life. It's time to stop living in the past. 'Life Is Beautiful,' is a brilliant movie, masterfully written, filmed, acted, and one that is thought-provoking (as evidenced by such disparity in these critiques). It should be enjoyed for what is is and not for what you want it to be.