This Woody Allen film is an interesting study of one of his favorite themes, relationships and love’s complications. As Woody Allen films go this was a good one featuring a great cast, great direction and great screenplay.

“Vicky Cristina Barcelona” follows the adventures of two best friends who have very different ideas on life and love. The young women travel to Spain and meet a Spaniard that changes their lives. There are no neat endings when it comes to relationships in Woody Allen films and this one is no exception. Scarlett Johansson and Rebecca Hall star as the best friends who meet Juan (Javier Bardem) and his jealous ex-wife Maria Elena (Penelope Cruz in her Oscar winning best supporting actress performance.)

The earth tone colors of the costumes and lighting in this film are artfully done. Set in Spain, the film captures the beauty of the country and instills the romantic feel Allen’s script revolves around. If there was one criticism I would make is the amount of narration used in the film.

Relationships, seduction and human frailty take center stage here. Simple yet complex like love, this is a film to add to your Woody Allen film library.

2008. Directed and written by Woody Allen. Starring Javier Bardem, Penelope Cruz, Scarlett Johansson, Rebecca Hall and Patricia Clarkson.

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