8:00 PM, 22nd April, 2010
Nine is an adaptation of a Broadway musical based on Fellini’s film 8˝. It tells the story of director Guido Contini’s (Day-Lewis) attempt to find inspiration for his latest film while his personal life is in turmoil. His wife, mistress and muse are all vying for his attention as he tries to deliver his ninth film, Italia, albeit without a script.
The all-star cast does a great job and proves able to both act and carry a tune. Dench and Fergie steal the show with their performances, but the rest of the cast also deliver fantastically, with Day-Lewis showcasing his incredible acting ability as expected.
Director Marshall’s brilliant Chicago is a lot to live up to and unfortunately Nine doesn’t get there. The songs aren’t as show-stopping or catchy but the cinematography is colourful and eye-catching. Overall the film doesn’t live up to its potential, but if all films were superb then it would be way too hard to decide which ones to give Oscars to.
Steven Cain