Life is Beautiful (1997)
Being positive is the most heroic thing we can do.
Presentation:
In a world full of so much hate and war, is life truly beautiful? Roberto Benigni would like you to believe so, directing and starring in this unique tragic comedy. Most films about the Holocaust are heavy and solemn, but this film attempts to make something beautiful out of the devastation. The first half of the film is a romantic comedy. Benigni has the comic physicality of Mr. Bean or Chaplin, but doesn’t always convince me with his pure optimism. There are cracks here and there and you can see ounces of doubt behind the facade. The slapstick style humor is quite funny, though sometimes over the top for my liking. Once tragedy strikes, we test the naive optimism with one of the darkest obstacles in human history.
Conclusion:
I’m not fully sold on this film because I’m not sure I agree with the underlying goal. The persevering optimism is genuinely inspiring, but unbelievable and potentially dangerous. I suppose that’s what makes it profound, but I think deceptive optimism isn’t as virtuous as the film makes it out to be. It’s not as funny as it is profound, but anyone that has complained in their lives for less will surely find this character’s attitude to be inspirational. Regardless, this uplifting message is commendable and might convince you that perhaps having a good attitude is the most heroic thing we can do.
Recommendations
A never-ending party you can’t wait to leave.