

The Family Friend (L' Amico di famiglia) (2006) (Italy)

Director: Paolo Sorrentino
Cast: Giacomo Rizzo, Laura Chiatti

Wow ... this is gonna be one of those movies that is rather divisive ... you either love it or hate it ... It triumphs on its surprisingly stylish scenes, amazing aural appeal, and literally likeable lines (contentious, cryptic, philosophical, and dark) ... Yet, it may fail on three aspects ... its beginning -- honestly, for many who have not read any synopsis (like me), the first 20 minutes or so introduces you to too many characters (confusing?! puzzling?!) and it takes quite a long while before all the characters get linked together ... its ending -- to some extent, many audience can anticipate what is to come ... And finally, rather subjective, some people may feel that he tries too hard in compressing too many things into one film (such that one viewing usually does not suffice) ...

So, why could so many characters emerge? The film basically revolves around the eccentric and maybe repulsive money lender ... Geremia (Giacomo Rizzo) ... who professes and convinces himself that he has a Heart-Of-Gold, addressing the females as "Dear Heart", etc ... How would his life change (if at all) when he finally meets the beauty queen and bride to be (Laura Chiatti) ... Better still, she is the daughter of a couple who are in debt (borrowing money for you guess what?! ... her wedding)

Conclusion:
Dont miss it if you are in for a very divisive film! You either love it or hate it ... Reasons to love -- surprisingly stylish scenes, amazing aural appeal, and literally likeable lines (contentious, cryptic, philosophical, and dark) ... Reasons to hate -- too many characters beginning, predictable ending and maybe, you think the director tries too hard ...