Italian films

I think you need to be at least 30yrs old to fully appreciate Cinema Paradiso. Not only does it focus on what part cinema plays in the life of Salvatore as he grows up, but the changes in Salvatore's life and village too over the space of about 40 yrs. The music is absolutely perfect. The young actor playing Toto is amazing. The 2hr version is near perfection. The 2hr 45m version adds a whole new dimension to the original, and whilst still brilliant, changes the viewers' feelings about certain characters which is not necessarily for the better. I recommend seeing both versions, but if you can only watch one, go for the 2hr version. Take some tissues with you too!

Surely one of the best films there ever was.

Like many Italian films of the era, it's dark in subject matter, kind of miserable and seems not to really be about much, yet it's probably one of the deepest neo-realistic films you're ever likely to see. Thought-provoking on so many levels, even at nearly 3hrs, you won't be bored for a moment.
A masterpiece.

Very similar to Cinema Paradiso in many ways. Whilst Malena may start off seeming rather crass, littered with unsubtle almost-cartoonish jokes and lingering shots, it slowly develops into a near masterpiece, powerful and thought-provoking on so many levels.

A very gentle, charming film that is a lot cleverer than it first seems. Beautiful scenery and music combine to make this a film that will please young and old audiences alike. Deservedly acclaimed.

Stylish, moody and well made though this film may be, but just like City Of God, I found it overly unpleasant. Everyone shoots everyone and nobody is likeable. It's nearly Scarface, it's nearly Goodfellas, it's nearly Godfather pt III, and whilst never really boring, it somehow falls short on most counts. Apart from a few interesting 1970s cars, some reasonable music and some decent cinematography, I find this film difficult to recommend. I far prefer Distretto di Polizia.