Keeley Coleman
The thing I enjoyed most about the film is the fact that it doesn't shy away from being a super-sized-cliche;
Guillelmina
The film's masterful storytelling did its job. The message was clear. No need to overdo.
Chris
It seems that some people still don't realise that it was Franco who was the rebel, against a democratically elected government. Part of the tension of the film stems from the fact that father and son are supporters of that government, despite its weaknesses and divisions, and that the wife/mother figure believes that Franco will save the upper classes from socialism.Penelope Cruz has a very minor role in this movie and the role of younger sister is much more important. The differing political views of the sisters are in large part a reflection of differences between the mother and father.To me the romantic element was not key to a movie which I perceived to be in equal measure about culture change and the social attitudes of the period.BTW, Polly Walker reminded me strongly of a young Sophia Loren!
docrob44
From reading the previous viewer contents one would never be able to truly appreciate what a marvelous film this was. Perhaps one of the reasons I reacted so positively to this film was that I lived through that period of the Spanish Civil War which had great meaning for many millions of Americans. It was, of course, the preview to WWII with the Germans backing General Franco and the Russians supplying the rebels. However even without the drama of pre civil war Spain the film stands up well on its own as a beautiful love story. An especially provocative theme of the movie is reflected in Maria's comment that "We are shown what it is we most desire but we cannot have it". Unfortunately this poignant comment is all too true for countless millions of folks. One important segment of the film not mentioned by previous viewers is the magnificent musical score. Its recurring melodic themes have a hauntingly beautiful effect which serves to enhance the sensuous love scenes between the two principals.
mahajanssen
This movie was a good effort and passable but it wasn't great. There should've been clearer evidence of why Maria went to Spain, why she needed to flee her fiance. I thought Franco Nero, the great actor that he is, should have been given a meatier role. Vincent Perez could've done so much more if only he was given the chance.The love story was rather subtle and I liked that they didn't overdo it like many other movies do. There was only one kissing scene and it wasn't shown if or not they ever consummated their love. It made you hungry for more! They didn't need a reason to fall in love, they just did. SPOILER! I thought the ending was perfect - for once, you don't see the lovers running into each other's arms for the ultimate cliched ending.The political unrest in Spain was well reflected. There was enough of it but to the oblivious like me, who never knew anything about the Franco era in Spain, maybe it would have helped if there was some clarification why there was a civil war, at least a little bit.Watch this movie for a chance to see Penelope Cruz pre-Tom Cruise days.
Dee-29
I enjoyed this movie, since I tend to like movies about longing and love. Vincent Perez has eyes that just melt the screen and Polly Walker is breathtakingly gorgeous. I liked the interaction between her character and her Irish friends - especially Frances McDormand whose face says so much with hardly a word.I think it would have been better if they showed a little bit more interaction between Vincent P. and Polly. Loved the actress that read the poem aloud. Her voice is oddly soothing.Also, got a kick out of her friend with the kooky hat!I know this is the type of movie that is more of a woman's movie - I know my husband could probably not sit through it.
