YOUTH – Rated R
“At my age, getting in shape is merely a waste of time…”
Writer and Director Paolo Sorrentino brings his later-in-life tale to life though the masterful acting of a seasoned and award-winning cast ~ so sit back and relax, as we journey into the psyche of reflecting upon one’s life…THIS IS YOUTH!
On holiday in the Alps with his daughter Lena (Rachel Weisz) and best friend, Film Director Mick Boyle (Harvey Keitel), Maestro Fred Ballinger (Michael Caine) is approached by one of Queen Elizabeth’s Emissaries, requesting he perform his for his majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip, to celebrate his birthday…
While flattered by the notion, Ballinger must refuse this request, as he no longer conducts his work, or anyone else’s for that matter, as he finds himself enjoying his retirement, and his time to reflect on days gone by…
As Fred basks in his apathetic existence, Mick is hard at work, putting together his latest “masterpiece of a film”, as he wants to make one last film for the world to experience…
As our friends attempt to find some semblance in what life may still hold for them ~ young actor Jimmy Tree (Paul Dano) is on holiday with then too, and he soon finds that listening to these two ~ and their experiences through life ~ is making his own life seem rather dull and unsatisfying…
When Mick’s STAR of his past films ~ the talented, yet past her prime Brenda Morel (Jane Fonda) arrives to discuss her thoughts on his next film, It seems that Mick might have bitten off more than he can chew with this feisty ol’ broad this time around…
I give YOUTH a rating of WAIT AND CATCH THIS ONE ON DVD ~ Even though the casting is superb ~ There are Oscar winners gracing every frame ~ and all perfectly cast in their respective roles too, I found that the story unfolding on screen was rather boring and depressing at times ~ and even though Fonda has been nominated for a Golden Globe for her portrayal in this film, I felt that her performance, while memorable, was extremely too short and undeserving of such an accolade. I also enjoyed “the reflection periods” throughout this film, as I am sure we all look back on our lives with not only a sense of fondness, but also a sense of regret too…but the deep and underlying physiological elements that forged this film into what it became, made it so depressing and draining as the frames rolled by, that I felt it might have met with a more enjoyable viewpoint from my own perspective, if I had viewed it in the comfort of my very own home…so I am suggesting that you follow my recommendation for your most enjoyable viewing experience J
Kathy Kaiser
MATINEE CHAT with Kathy Kaiser 