How is it possible not to appreciate this movie? A Fellini homage filled sprinkled with some of the most beautiful women in film history singing beautiful songs and wearing couture lingerie. “Nine” is a delicious film, less concerned with a formulaic narrative than with the worship of aesthetic. I don’t have a problem with that at all. It is a sensual extravaganza that celebrates Italy, Women, Film and Music.
I loved Rob Marshall’s “Chicago” — a deserved Oscar winner and a film that isn’t so different from this one. The only thing missing from “Nine” is the familiarity of the musical material. These are “new” songs to most in the audience… so the sing-along, toe-tapping factor is gone. Nevertheless, I really believe that the two films are companion pieces and a special brace of movies for the talented director.
The most outstanding moments belong to Marion Cotillard (my future wife and my choice for the best actress in the world today) and Penelope Cruz (who sizzles with one of the opening numbers). However, each of the actresses on parade have their musical moment and each delivers beautifully. “Nine” may not be a truly great film, but it is a decadent indulgence filled with an endless circle of passion and regret, passion and regret.
