Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)
Mature themes
| Director: | Woody Allen |
| Actors: | Javier Bardem, Penelope Cruz, Scarlett Johansson, Patricia Clarkson, Rebecca Hall, Kevin Dunn, Chris Messina |
Two young American women, Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Cristina (Scarlett Johansson) come to Barcelona for a summer holiday. Vicky is sensible and engaged to be married; Cristina is emotionally and sexually adventurous. In Barcelona, they're drawn into a series of unconventional romantic entanglements with Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem), a charismatic painter, who is still involved with his tempestuous ex-wife Maria Elena (Penelope Cruz). Set against the luscious Mediterranean sensuality of Barcelona, Vicky Cristina Barcelona is Woody Allen's funny and open-minded celebration of love in all its configurations.
| Status: | QuickPick |
|---|---|
| Run time: | 96mins |
| Origin: | UNITED STATES |
| Aspect Ratio: | 16:9 |
Woody's holiday snaps
by Simon Miraudo, 14/12/2008 10:54:00 AM
The cliché would be to compare Woody Allen’s latest film Vicky Cristina Barcelona to a bottle of fine wine: A fruity, aromatic drop that goes down smooth, lingers momentarily, and then disappears politely from the palette. Unfortunately, I’m not a big drinker, so I won’t resort to such lazy criticism. Maybe I could compare it to Barcelona, the backdrop of Vicky and Cristina’s exploits: Filled with wonderful, quirky characters and beautiful sights, but you never forget you are just a tourist, which keeps you from having too much fun. Sadly, I’ve never been to Spain, so I wouldn’t dare use such a generalisation. What I am qualified to discuss is Woody Allen. As far as I’m concerned, all romantic comedies should be compared to either Annie Hall or Manhattan, and Vicky Cristina Barcelona is n...
The cliché would be to compare Woody Allen’s latest film Vicky Cristina Barcelona to a bottle of fine wine: A fruity, aromatic drop that goes down smooth, lingers momentarily, and then disappears politely from the palette. Unfortunately, I’m not a big drinker, so I won’t resort to such lazy criticism. Maybe I could compare it to Barcelona, the backdrop of Vicky and Cristina’s exploits: Filled with wonderful, quirky characters and beautiful sights, but you never forget you are just a tourist, which keeps you from having too much fun. Sadly, I’ve never been to Spain, so I wouldn’t dare use such a generalisation.
What I am qualified to discuss is Woody Allen. As far as I’m concerned, all romantic comedies should be compared to either Annie Hall or Manhattan, and Vicky Cristina Barcelona is no exception. I was lucky enough to enjoy this film under the stars at Moonlight Cinema, which is probably the ideal environment to watch this sunburnt comedy. It’s the latest entry in Allen’s European escapades, following Match Point, Scoop and Cassandra’s Dream. Vicky and Cristina have set off for Barcelona in the hope of a little clarity. Vicky (Rebecca Hall) has left her fiancé behind to finish her Masters in Catalina Culture, although she doesn’t really have plans to use it once she's finished. The flighty Cristina (Scarlett Johansson) just wants to shake up her boring life, a goal she will achieve and ultimately leave her empty.
While enjoying a traditional Spanish midnight dinner, they are approached by an artist named Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem – exorcising Anton Chigurrh quite successfully). He offers them a weekend of sightseeing and good company (which may or may not lead to lovemaking). Vicky is appalled at first; Cristina intrigued. They take him up on his offer, and enjoy the sights and the company (and yes, even the promised lovemaking). Juan Antonio shares stories of his feisty ex Marie Elena (Penelope Cruz). They were so in love, they almost killed each other (quite literally – Juan Antonio has the stab wound to prove it). Of course, Marie Elena comes out of the woodwork to turn the love triangle into a love quadrangle (or something). Juan Antonio’s wild stories are proven to be frighteningly true.
There isn’t a lot to Vicky Cristina Barcelona, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. It plays out like a particularly fantastical holiday anecdote, except this one is told by one of the all time great storytellers. It’s a bouquet of beautiful scenery, from the leading ladies to the Spanish architecture. Cruz is an absolute firecracker, and Bardem is the nicest guy to ever say the line “perhaps you would understand your feelings better once we have made love”.
However the film isn’t without flaws. The story slows down whenever Cruz and Bardem are off screen. Allen’s signature inner monologues are gone. Instead, an omniscient and unnecessary narrator takes over. It fits into the storybook nature of the film, but it seems the most interesting content is brushed over, in place of cold, concise descriptions (a particularly fiery argument between Juan Antonio and Marie Elena is disregarded completely). Overall though, it’s hard not to recommend this film. It’s the perfect Boxing Day movie: It’s a warm afternoon, you’ve got wine in your belly, and you’ve been eating light. And I couldn’t imagine better company than Vicky, Cristina and Woody on a relaxing summer day.
4/5
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Member Reviews (68)
68 Member
Reviews
says
Not terrible but just a rather pointless and flat film.
Peter
says
Robert, mate, you are spot on. A silly little movie, as indeed I beleive most of Mr Allen's works to be.
His publicity machine is about as good (or maybe better?) than Johansson's as so many think he';s a "genius".
Just another neurotic New York group of people moved into Spain.
Ms Cruz shines for Pedro Almodovar but no American directors.
AND the narration was annoying, Bardem tries but the material doesn't give him much to go on.
Robert
says
What a silly little movie. I'm starting to think that Scarlett Johansson is not as good as her publicity machine would like us to think she is
Alex
says
This film shows the difference between the hot blooded Spanish and the rational Americans. Great acting in exotic sorroundings.
says
Good performances galore in this movie with beautiful Barcelona as a backdrop.
Carina
says
Wonderful film and inspires a sense of adventure, the cast are all brilliant and completely suited to their roles. The narration during parts seemed a little awkward or intrusive but overall it was great!
Margit
says
Great cast.
claudia
says
Boring didn't like it and the narrating was annoying.
Janice
says
Thought this could of had a better storyline. Again a bit normal day to day occurrance for a movie.
Phil
says
Weak nearly annoying for a Woody Allen!
Elizabeth
says
Ok. The relationships are too messed up.
Michael Brindley
says
Very 'European', completely assured, witty and very sexy. Delightful world-weary Voice Over narration. More cynical than 'Midnight In Paris', but more complex too.
Claire
says
I've seen this film four times now. To be honest, I went to Barcelona BECAUSE of this film (and once there, found myself disappointed that it wasn't more like the film). Love this film, especially with summer approaching... bring on a summer fling with a hot spaniard!
Lissa
says
Pretty scenary. Pretty actors. Pretty pointless. Everyone behaved and sounded like a neurotic middle aged jewish man...including the women.
Could have, should have been tittalating at times, but noone seemed to make a real connection with each other and then there was the middle aged jewish guy behaviour and dialogue to get your head around....really offputting.
julie
says
It was a enjoyable film, the only thing did not like was the narrator talking in the film
Boo
says
love love... very sexy, quirky, and fun. love the sense of adventure and the actors are all terrific. makes me want to move to barcelona
shayley
says
sexy, nice, relaxing movie...
Shona
says
This movie was unrealistic and boring
Amanda
says
Hellishly boring! Penelope Cruz while beautiful, just screams and yells alot.
Fox
says
Excellent... Thoroughly entertaining and nice on the eyes...
alistair c
says
Enjoyable enough. Makes too much of the difference between Americans and Europeans but like most character exaggerations there is usually an element of truth there. Way out plot saved by good acting. Overall worth watching.
kimbo
says
Two girlfriends on a summer holiday in Spain become enamored with the same painter, unaware that his ex-wife, with whom he has a tempestuous relationship, is about to re-enter the picture. Highly entertaining film. Not usually a Woody Allen fan but this is one of his best
Sammy
says
Excellent movie. Great cast, great scenery, great storyline
Clouseau
says
A pretty typical Woody Allen movie. Quirky and makes you think about following your heart or your head. Penelope Cruz is excellent. The location - Barcelona is even better. Enjoyable, entertaining, but not great.
Carolyn
says
A movie to watch when you have nothing better to do. Just okay. Ending was bland.
Sandie
says
I loved this movie, it is quite quirky and the acting is very good.
Angie
says
Brilliant! Just sat and smiled the whole way through. Cruz is AMAZING!
Eyelashflutterer
says
Absolute rubbish - completely unbelievable and absolutely unsatisfying experience in every way.
John N
says
A self-indulgent Woody Allen exploring his usual emotional hang-ups and only saved by the late entry of Penelope Cruz.
Jacquie
says
Disappointing movie, waste of time
J
says
Well worth a watch. It was much enjoyed by my wife and I.
Catherine
says
I love Woody Allen but this one is terrible, an indulgent wish by an aging man to be one of the actors playing around with three gorgeous women. Very silly, I couldn't even be bothered hanging around for the lesbian scene.
Kim
says
I loved this film. Penelope Cruz was outstanding with her manic intensity. A thoroughly enjoyable movie with very interesting characters.
Karla
says
Movie was a bit slow. Not real keen on the narration or the ending.
Sylvia H.
says
Scenery good and Penelope Cruz great but quite silly really
Margaret C.
says
Barcelona looks great. Not un-entertaining, but now perhaps a little predictable? Less appallingly annoying than I usually find Woody Allen.
Melissa
says
This was a good movie, great actors and great scenery. But I didn't enjoy the ending, it seemed to just drop off as if they had just stop shooting because they ran out of time?
John N.
says
Dumb, so dumb and unrealistic. Romantic not, just a dumb bonkfest. Don't be tempted, you will be disappointed for sure.
Bruce A.
says
The best part of this movie is the absurdly detailed narration. Slightly disappointing ending, but a very enjoyable and pleasant journey to get there.
Catherine J.
says
Normally not into Woody Allen, but this was fabulous. Very intriguing and entertaining. A great art house type film. Sit back and enjoy - like being taken on a trip to Barcelona with no inhibitions.
Judith
says
Hmmm bit slow and lame.
Emma
says
It's the second time I have seen this movie. I love it! Woody Allan is a genius.
Barbara
says
A "Claytons Movie" - you know, the movie you watch when your not watching a movie. If it wasn't for Scarlett
Michelle H.
says
I really enjoyed this movie. Superb acting, easy to watch, funny, but also thought-provoking.
Osti
says
Two young American women on holiday in Barcelona get sexually entangled with a handsome charming famous painter and his ex-wife, and then go home to boring old New York a little sadder and wiser. Not much else happens, but the presentation of Catalan culture, scenery and streetscapes adds value.
Glenys1
says
This is worth seeing for Penelope Cruz's performance alone. Javier Bardem has the most logical and irresistible pick-up routine ever and whoever designed the gorgeous linen wardrobe items for Vicki and Cristina - I want them all.
Vicky's life in America seems perfect until it is contrasted with the poetic, sexy and artistic existence in Spain. Her "perfect" fiance turns vapid and boring in the rich intensity of the Barcelona sun.
Helen
says
Really enjoyed this - very quirky little film with some quite damaged characters who are occasionaly annoying. Penelope Cruz's character was probably the most interesting. Had a feel of being quite dated, perhaps to do with the prudishness of one of the American girls. Not massively gripping, but entertaining.
Trish
says
A real disappointment. The grating American voice-over was a pain. I gave up after 20 minutes.
Chris
says
Gratuitous Gaudity. The real star of this film is Barcelona. Woody Allen exploits every opportunity to sneak a Barcelona landmark into the background, and if like me you love this city then it can't be overdone. However, the characters and plot aren't up to scratch, and there's little of the wit and humour you'd expect in a Woody Allen film. Wealthy Americans abroad are tiresome, and fiery Spaniards are a caricature but there's enough here to make it worthwhile.
Megan S.
says
An amazing movie - and I swear I'm Woody Allen's biggest 'love-to-hate-him' fan. A movie that pulls you into a world you've (probably) never visited and makes you never want to leave. I've never been a solid fan of Ms Cruz either, but this film left me thinking she was the most beautiful, passionate and sexy creature that has ever walked the earth. Javier Bardem is sex on legs and a fascinating character study and Rebecca Hall plays a wonderfully confused, straitlaced but dying to be wanton Vicky. For the Woody haters, the best thing about this movie is he's not in it!!
Danuta
says
Woody Allen's done it again for me! He's always entertaining! Relationships he does well. Admittedly his direction is recognisable, but less so in this film with the characters not so repetetive as american's usually are! Penelope, Rebecca & Scarlett are all brilliant and delightful to watch do their craft. Javier Bardem is interesting! Great script, fab scenery of Barcelona and just a delightful romp into "truth is stranger than fiction" and it's usually the way when one's young and on hodildays in another country.
em-zed
says
This is an okay film if you have nothing better to watch. Maybe I should get out more, but I found the plot improbable. I also felt indifferent about the characters. The film did not engage me on any level.
Colin Y.
says
Superb "slice of life" movie, made better by the fact that Woody Allen does NOT appear in this movie. The acting is terrific and Penelope Cruz injects the energy and life into this movie which would otherwise probably fall flat without her.
Don't expect anything too deep and meaningful here, just take it as an interesting episode in the main characters life (Scarlett Johansson)
Chrisco
says
Such a great film! It will definately speak to the European within. Great characters, couldn't want more from a film! A nice chilled out film about life and finding what makes you happy. Enjoy!
GANDR
says
It's my opinion that most Woody Allen films have a caustic New York edge to them. Usually pivoting around themes of guilt, infidelity or both. This film has a little of that but thankfully the formula is new for Woody Allen. The result is the best darn Woody Allen film ever made! All the substance of a European film, with the arc of an American film. The four central players all seem well casted and their fine performances make the film rush by. Well done Woody!
Joanne
says
This was an easy watch about the complexities of love. I thouroughly enjoyed the music and european setting. Worth a watch
Bron
says
Love this movie, the relationships are intriguing, the characters are all gorgeous to look at, as is the beautiful scenery of Barcelona. Penelope Cruz is outstanding!
Andrew
says
We were a bit underwhelmed in the end. While the surroundings and locations and presented beautifully, we weren't blown away by anything about this film. Penelope Cruz's performance is very good but it takes over 40 minutes before she even makes an appearance. Javier Bardem's honest and pragmatic approach is sometimes effective and other times bewildering. A very easy film to watch, I just didn't get particularly moved or involved.
Nelson W.
says
Well woth watching.
Sally A.
says
I was informed how great this movie was, - A must see! etc, This movie didnt live up to the great expectations I thought it would...
Only great thing was the senery...
William C.
says
This is Woody back to form - supported by a great cast,, witty script
Gerd
says
What a beautiful movie. Beautiful in an odd Woody-Allen sort of way. Nothing in life is ever simple, especially not love. The movie shows so well how love can come in different ways. Did Vicky and Cristina love each other too? Maybe. Did they both love Barcelona? Definitely. As do those of us with a similar take on life - and love.
Kerrin D.
says
I liked this movie because it made me question what I thought I knew about love. An interesting concept and some good acting makes this movie worth watching. Not your usual type of movie, although I haven't seen many Woody Allen films.
Meredith D.
says
I simply do not understand why people think Woody Allen movies are anything other than self absorbed puerile rubbish. In this one, the actors are terrible -- all seem to be simply imitating how Allen himself would play the part -- the story has no artistic tension at all -- completely predictable. The only thing that's any good is the scenery. Bad, bad, bad.
Patricia
says
Slow paced but very intriguing. I liked it, but mostly because of the absurdities. Only piece of advice would be that If you hate Woody Allen do not bother.
Rita K.
says
Really wonderful, have a glass of red while you watch this like the characters do. If you haven't been to Barcelona, go there too!! Penelope Cruz was mesmerising, I just wish she had more screen time. Moi bien!
kmooey
says
Mmm interesting, I was a bit unsure with Woody Allen as director his movies are always a bit weird,but i did quite enjoy this movie, a little bit slow and a little bit weird in places and not the ending I was hoping for, but overall I enjoyed this movie, it kept me entertained !! What more could you ask for ! *_*
Adriaan van Jaarsveldt
says
A wonderful, light, sexy, intelligent love-letter to Barcelona and the joys of being young and in love from Woody Allen. What a canon of work Woody has given us over the years. You can always feel sure that, regardless of the purpose of the journey or the destination, if you take the trip with Woody it will be an enjoyable one.
Many may find the ending of Barcelona unsatisfying, but most will enjoy the film and the company of these four delightful characters. All four of the main actors are excellent, interesting and engaging. The stand-out for me is Rebecca Hall as the straight laced Vicky, although the Oscar nomination has gone to Penelope Cruz for her portrayal of the passionate and somewhat unhinged Maria Elena. Javier Bardem is very engaging as the likeable Juan Antonio, a character that could not be more distant from his Chigurh in No Country for Old Men last year. A movie that will make you want to move to Spain and take up painting.