Youth (2015)
This is one of those odd cases where seeing this made me appreciate another film a bit more. I was sort of intrigued but mostly reserved about The Great Beauty and I have seen this described as the directors shorter, more approachable Hollywood version of that. Which is sort of true, but I also think a bit was lost in that process.
The style and theme are similar, with lavish looking surroundings where rich old people enjoy luxury, but they feel they live empty lives. Addresses the common question of money can buy happiness - and love.
Everything looks gorgeous, with many shots looking like a postcard, but it is an empty sort of beauty. Most people in this spa are acting almost zombie-like, just existing - not really enjoying themselves. There is plenty of obvious contrast between young and old, with several scenes handling that in a very non-subtle way.
Not sure about the tone. It has plenty of humor but its light tone undermines the serious themes. Sometimes it seems like a parody of itself, but it is still meant to be taken serious. All the themes are front and center and easy to understand, it just didn’t move me that much. The Great Beauty didn’t either, but it was more stylish, more crazy, nuts and felt less superficial despite the similar lavish setting.
I have a hard time really getting into Sorrentino style of films, but I still want to watch more of his. There is something making it worthwhile despite my frustrations.
Rating: 3