This movie is often more a collection of scenes than an impactful narrative. It has some beautiful black ane white camerawork, fine acting and above all directing. After an hour or so of pleasantries and drama, the beat scenes come in the middle starting with Steiper's wife (at 1:16) inviting Marcello and you the viewer into a fantastic, funy and philosophical party of artists and intellectuals. Iris, the self-proclaimed alcoholic prophet, and others are charming and wise. Then Marcello's father arrives and makes a big impact to the storyline. Finally Magdelena's tour of the opulent and artitic grounds and the "room of serious conversation " offer exquisite dialogue, intrigue and beautiful setting. The ending and surprise arrival is especially poignant closing the movie's best offering. Lastly the outside and inside further exploration of the amazing decors and costumes lead to a sexy spirit conjuring scene to end the best hour of this almost 3 hours long multi-faceted film.
The next 35mins are slightly melodramatic and even the striptease scene and Marcello's sexually charged rant at Nadia's party can't save the lower level of interest endured.
The ending puts everything in perspective and closes with a high note. It is beautifully shot from the forest clearing to the beach. Marcello's spontaneous smile sitting on the beach says a lot and the nonverbal communication exchange over the sound of the agitated sea is beautiful to see. Happiness can be as simple as that
Even with its few flaws and less titillating moments, La Dulce Vita remains a masterwork and classic that must be seen and experienced.
The next 35mins are slightly melodramatic and even the striptease scene and Marcello's sexually charged rant at Nadia's party can't save the lower level of interest endured.
The ending puts everything in perspective and closes with a high note. It is beautifully shot from the forest clearing to the beach. Marcello's spontaneous smile sitting on the beach says a lot and the nonverbal communication exchange over the sound of the agitated sea is beautiful to see. Happiness can be as simple as that
Even with its few flaws and less titillating moments, La Dulce Vita remains a masterwork and classic that must be seen and experienced.