Poor Woody

Rating: 5/10 (25 June 2012)

There is a facet of Woody I quite enjoy, which I denominate Perky Woody, in which he is absolutely genius. From the intense drama and suspense of "Match Point", to the neurosis of "Annie Hall", "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" and "Deconstructing Harry". In this category also applies the fantasy of "Midnight in Paris" and the limitless joy of "Small Time Crooks".
On the other hand, there is the facet of Woody I quite detest, in this case Poor Woody. The stupidity of "Anything Else", "Whatever Works" and "You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger" are beyond belief. Unfortunately "To Rome With Love" falls into this category. Even though not as terrible as the titles I mentioned, the film falls short in almost every aspect.
I believe Woody is spectacular when focused on a specific group of characters from start to finish. His study of character is unparalleled. In this case, without a subject to focus on, it seems the film was directed by Garry Marshall, in a New Year's Eve / Valentine's Day approach. Not as bad though.
I didn't feel exactly compelled by any of the stories - even Penelope, charming as ever, couldn't save the shallowness of her storyline. Some will say that he created a great farce, but for me, it just didn't work.