a bit overrated but still good.

Rating: 7/10 (4 March 2009)

After countless misfires, Woody Allen has finally got his act together with Vicky Cristina Barcelona following, aptly, Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Cristina (scarlett johansson) on their trip to Barcelona. Vicky is engaged and lives a slightly unexciting life while Cristina is more courageous and is still looking for a man to sweep her of her feet. One night, while out at a restaurant, they meet Juan Antonio, a Spanish painter beautifully portrayed by Javier bardem. He offers them a weekend at his home town promising sightseeing, good food and making love. Cristina accepts and persuades Vicky to come along. Juan Antonio seduces them both but when Vicky precedes to marry her husband, Cristina begins a long term relationship with him. Everything is going smoothly until the artist receives a phone call revealing that his ex-wife Maria Elena (a stunning Penelope cruz) has attempted to commit suicide. Juan Antonio allows her to come and live with them for a couple of months and eventually the three all indulge in a relationship together. However, neither of the very different affairs last and the movie has a lot to say about the strange, briefness and unpredictability of love. Rebecca Hall manages to hold her own as the insecure Vicky, who's simple and dull life is turned upside down when she meets Juan Antonio and ends up falling for him. Meanwhile, Scarlett Johansson is beautiful but outclassed by the two Spaniards. the movie is far from perfect however, with annoying narration throughout telling us a lot more than we need to know and feeling lazy and pointless. It almost signifies that the actors could not portray the emotion required, which is entirely untrue, considering the calibre of acting which is very high. Moreover, after watching Match Point the movie feels slightly clichéd. However, the two Oscar-winning Spaniards and the films authenticity hold it together and build up to a classic Woody Allen unsatisfying climax.
summary Those expecting a rom-com will be disappointed. The movie is a lot darker than predicted. Packed with great performances and brilliant elements, its enough for you to forgive it's flaws.
Woody's back. No, really...