Scattered Romance In Catalonia

Rating: Null/10 (26 March 2009)

'Vicky Cristina Barcelona' follows the same track of the usual Woody Allen movie about unusual relationships with a touch of comedy. Previously he has tried something different with 'Matchpoint' and 'Scoop' but this movie can be labelled a 'typical Woody Allen comedy', if you like. Here too he explores relationships. The narrative structure is pretty similar but I wonder why Woody chose not to do the voice-over himself. The dialogues have the irony, humour and philosophy of Allen's usual style. The cinematography is vibrant and the score is both whimsical and romantic.
Allen takes full advantage of Barcelona's beauty and gives us glimpses of the typical tourist locations such as the Sagrada Familia (since the title characters are visitors, why not?) but also the stunning natural landscape shots. I like that he portrays it as an artist's city for that is what makes it a unique place in the world. Gaudi's works also play a small but significant role. It is his works that draw Vicky to Barcelona in the first place until this is replaced by someone, Juan Antonio.
Rebecca Hall is quite a pleasant surprise. I had first seen her in 'Frost/Nixon' where she has a strong presence, but here she is brilliant. Scarlett Johansson is quite alright. She's overshadowed by her co-stars. Javier Bardem is unexpectedly cast as a charming, smooth-talking seducer/artist and the actor is simply great. Patricia Clarkson is effective in a small role.
But the real star is Penelope Cruz. Cast against type, she is terrific as the neurotic, manipulative.. (well I shouldn't list more spoilers).. Maria Elena. It's one of her best works to date and completely different from what she has done for Almodovar (contrary to what many have said).
The characters are very familiar when you think of Allen's previous film and I doubt it would be wrong to guess that they are a part of him. Thus, 'Vicky Cristina Barcelona' is an unconventional romantic comedy (though typical Woody Allen) but that is not to say that it's a summer flick. The movie does have layers and depth that reveal the dark side of relationships, attachments, desire and commitment.