As good as Bergman, at last

Rating: 10/10 (5 June 2006)

It did Woody Allen much good to look at the world through an English eye. This got him out of his usual thing. And thanks God, he doesn't act in the movie.
Suddenly, there is depth and culture in this clever study of British bourgeoisie faced with the more rugged type of an American aspiring actress, a cute orphan who's mother drank.
On the other hand, the main concerns of the British aristocracy are their sense of duty, and the need to breed an heir.
But above all, it's this pervading love of Verdi, a typical European trait. The music is from the "the Traviata". And the soundtrack bares much due sound of scratch. And as the action heats up, leading to a brutal double murder, Verdi's opera gets more pathetic, and the voices start to quiver.
Match point is a master's work : the turmoil of young harts with an intrigue that is razor sharp. The story's hinges are subtle, just like tails or heads.
Scarlett Johansson is a natural as wannabe movie actress. Whereas her mother in law would love to see her do anything but that.
British wit with Italian Bel Canto : Woodie Allen, at last, is as good as Bergmann.