The movie, Life is Beautiful, portrays a serious matter through the eyes of an individual who brings humor and happiness to situations. Roberto Benigni, the writer and director of this movie also plays as the main character. I find it extremely inspiring how his sense of humor leads him through life. Throughout the beginning of the film the character, Guido Orefice, puts himself in funny and crazy situations just to be around the girl he loves. For example, he shows up at a children school and pretends to be the Italian inspector. Amongst asking the woman her whereabouts on the upcoming Saturday he also shares the incredible sight of a belly button. Guido is able to win her over with his charm, humor, and persistence.
After the two lovebirds get married they then have a child. It is a baby boy named Giosué whom Guido and Dora love very much. This story is during the Great Depression though therefore this happy family is forced to an internment camp and Dora is separated from her husband and son. At least Guido gets to protect his son and stay with him. And since he is just a child Guido convinces Giosué that it is all a game. When the German officers come in, Guido tells his son that they are explaining the rules and that they must survive to win the big prize! Even in a time of crisis and desperation Guido is able to lighten the mood and protect his son.
In reading History and Memory in Life is Beautiful by Ryan Scoot I found it interesting that the author touched upon the fact that the story is a family story. It has been shared from generation to generation. And family stories can be altered by memory which reminded me of the earlier piece we read Memory and Imagination and I was reminded that i must always remember that stories are often altered by the writer but only in the intent so the reader better likes it. Life is Beautiful is a great depiction what internment camps were really like for Jewish people. Even though Guido protects his son by telling him it is all a playful game, he cannot hide the truth forever.
yeah i agree with what you said about it it being ok that the movie was actually based on memory more than facts infoming us on the movie. I like it betrer that way i feel like its a mpre personal thing and makes it easier for the viewers to connect.
ReplyDeleteInterestingly, both you and Meghan touched on the aspect of the story in relationship to the family. That certainly does change things. Try to analyze the argument and the individuality of Guido in the film. What aspect does this add? Raquel has an interesting point, that the family in the story makes it more personal. Why would the director want to personalize it?
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