I am a great admirer of Luchino Visconti, so it saddens me to say that I did not like this film. Of course, with an actress of Magnani's quality, you do not walk away empty-handed, she excels in parts, but is ultimately stereotyped by the "earthy Italian female" character, one who remains sexually virtuous in spite of other questionable behavior, and puts herself in unnecessary situations that erode her reputation in the eyes of husband and acquaintances.
The script is thin, in spite of interesting asides involving her relationships with child, husband, and would-be lover. B&W photography is standard, downright unimaginative but effective. Acting is the film's best asset but, as far as I am concerned, does not save it - especially because the ending is so obvious and long-winded.
It is interesting to compare BELISSIMA with LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, as both focus on beauty/singing competitions for young girls. Granted, LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE was done 50 years later, but it flows far better and its ramifications are far wider and more meaningful.
The script is thin, in spite of interesting asides involving her relationships with child, husband, and would-be lover. B&W photography is standard, downright unimaginative but effective. Acting is the film's best asset but, as far as I am concerned, does not save it - especially because the ending is so obvious and long-winded.
It is interesting to compare BELISSIMA with LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, as both focus on beauty/singing competitions for young girls. Granted, LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE was done 50 years later, but it flows far better and its ramifications are far wider and more meaningful.