Vicky Cristina Barcelona [DVD]

In "Vicky Cristina Barcelona", Woody Allen explores yet another variation on his central theme of complex sexual relationships, but this time through the lens of the tourist's camera. The tourist is Scarlett Johansson in her role as the restless Cristina, who has no idea what, exactly, she is compulsively seeking through the lens of her digital camera (Metaphorically, she begins to catch a glimpse only after she exchanges digital for film.). Both Cristina and her intellectual best friend, Vicky (Rebecca Hall), arrive in Barcelona, where they are quickly captivated by the attentions of an aspiring artist (Javier Bardem), who is encumbered by baggage--the baggage in question being his suicidal/homicidal wife, Maria Elena (played to the hilt by Penelope Cruz).

Through the splendid cinematography of Javier Aguirresarobe, Allen makes it evident that the two friends are seduced as much by the spell of Spain in general--with its "gently weeping" guitars, midnight tapas and golden wines--and Barcelona in particular--with its magnificent art and architecture, ingredients that render a scenario, which in a more mundane setting would be improbable, plausible. In other words, the city--the third ingredient of the title--works its magic both on characters and viewers, who are able to suspend their disbelief as one tends to do when traveling to the enchanting cities of southern Europe. Allen demonstrates this proposition with Vicky's husband and his friends who discuss nothing but computers and business affairs while her thoughts drift away with the haunting notes of a classical Spanish guitar.

Some reviewers have criticized the voice-over, but as far as I'm concerned, this straightforward device lent the film an old-fashioned charm. Others have criticized the intrusion of Woody Allen's narrative voice into the dialogue. And yes, there certainly are lines that one can "hear" Woody Allen reciting, but such intrusions made the film all the more enjoyable for me (in a nudge nudge wink wink manner); and I suppose that the enjoyment of this film will depend on whether one likes Woody Allen's humor, or not. To some it may seem like the same old schtick; to others, as in the case of the eponymous "Vicky Cristina", it represents the third ingredient without which the film would not seem complete.

The Patricia Clarkson role is vital in this film, without wanting to give too much away. And what a good actress she is, adding something substantially to every film I've seen her in. She is not in a leading role here, but these are expertly cast too, so that as usual you feel Allen is guiding you masterfully through the twists and turns of the plot. These are compelling, I found. At times the film reminded me a bit of Jules et Jim, with a menage a trois complete with bikes and country lanes ... and a charmingly insinuating soundtrack. And the theme of mental instability is also a parallel ... Penelope Cruz really pushes her character to an extreme but it works very well in the context (in line with the Jeanne Moreau character, but physically more in the mould of Sophia Loren) and she looks fabulous too, as do both American girls. It is one of those films that manage to be very entertaining and reflect interestingly on real life as well, and with depth, even if the beauty quotient is improbably high! And the ending is perfectly judged, leaving you wondering how Allen can turn out films of this calibre - or even better - so regularly. Perhaps it falls a little short of his very best, in that the portrayal of the 'artist' is a bit superficial and it doesn't quite feel as if the culture has been absorbed. As, indeed, it hasn't by its American characters. Nevertheless the handling of the plot is superb, and it does suggest how we may discover things about ourselves precisely when we are not in our own environment.

I don't really know much about Woody Allen so can't speak for those who want to compare this film against others... Judging by other reviews, it seems to be a much simpler film than what his fans are used to. But what I can say is this, Vicky Cristina Barcelona is a film I can watch again and again, perhaps because of its simplicity... It makes laugh and I love how the city of Barcelona is a character in itself... If you have ever fallen in love with a city (especially a Hispanic one) this might strike a chord with you. I would definitely recommend this film!