Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Movie: Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Director: Woody Allen

Screenplay: Woody Allen

Starring: Rebecca Hall, Scarlett Johansson, Javier Bardem, Penelope Cruz

Why I watch this movie: I want to see Penelope Cruz’s Oscar winning performance

I truly think nothing beats directing a story that is written by the same person. The writer can truly explain and translate his script into the film without losing the original meaning.  Woody Allen is one of those prolific writers who also directs (or prolific director who can also write).

I really enjoy Vicky Christina Barcelona. The story is about two friends, Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Christina (Scarlett Johansson) , travel to Spain and was sucked into sexual relationship with an attractive, yet divorced painter (Javier Bardem) whose ex-wife (Penelope Cruz) has unresolved issues of her own.  I think Penelope Cruz did a great job in playing the ex-wife.  She is very convincing in the role of a mental-ish, pyscotic-ish ex-wife. Javier Bardemand Scarlett Johansson deliever a solid performance as well. However, I think Rebecca Hall delivers the best performance of all.  As I go to imdb.com to see her credential, I was shocked that she hasn’t starred in too many of other movies.  I hope I can see more of Rebecca Hall in the near future.

I highly recommend this movie.

Film Construction Rating (Direction, Story, Acting): ****

Entertainment Rating: ****