MOVIE REVIEW - To Rome With Love

It's summer in the 21st century and that must mean another light comedy from Woody Allen. And this summer it's, To Rome With Love. A title that Woody Allen hates, as the studio renamed it, the original title was Rome.

The past couple of summers have Allen bringing us Midnight In Paris, and Victoria Cristina Barcelona both wonderfully enchanting flicks that brought huge critical acclaim. This summer the European Allen Tour continues to Rome.

This is a very strange movie, but still Allen fun. It's the story of 4 separate stories set in the wonderful backdrop of Rome. These are for the most part young love stories told through a great ensemble cast, the somehow connect, but not in the nice little bow that many would like. But for those who love Allen movies, they won't care. This has all the charm, wit and look of modern Allen comedies. Allen is an acquired taste to be sure, and real Allen fans will get a jolt out of actually seeing Woody on screen this time in a small role. His first screen appearance since 2006. And he is still the same guy on camera. And it still works.

Being fair, this is not Midnight In Paris, which was simply a gem. But this is still fun with young Jessie Eisenberg stepping in to be the new Allen much as Owen Wilson was in Midnight In Paris. You know the confused, babbling, insecure young male character that never really seems to get it right till the very end. Eisenberg is great. The cast goes on to boast, Alec Baldwin, Ellen Page, and Penelope Cruz who is brilliant in her role as a high prices call girl. And also fine performances by a real nice supporting cast.

Again, a zippy and fun musical soundtrack, wonderful backdrops from beautiful Rome. A fine and funny script, and a story that you have not really seen before give this wings. Plus, this movie makes a loud, yet subtle social statement about the foreign press, society's obsession with fame, and young adults perceived sense of entitlement and selfishness. It's so "out there" it won't be for everyone, but for Allen fans it's right on the money. Should be noted, some of this is subtitled, but not all. Much Italian spoken in this flick.

To Rome With Love. For me, I have found Allen's last few flicks mandatory viewing, and I'm not a huge Woody Allen fan. But he is making maybe the best movies of his career off camera. And this is again a nice summer getaway, and relief from all the superheros and action at the movies. Well done.