I was watching The Tourist this afternoon and while I found the film to be a little disappointing as the film sacrificed chemistry between the two lead actors for star billing that they hoped would attract people to the film, it reminded me of what a beautiful city Venice is.
I went to Venice a number of years ago and had the fortune of staying in the Hotel Daniela and it really is a beautiful hotel. The entire city is amazing and no matter how many films may feature aspects of Venice until you physically see the city, it is impossible to take everything in.
That said, there are a number of films that use Venice and I have decided that I would dedicate today's post to the wonderful city.
Starting with the obvious ones:
Death in Venice - this is a slow film by today's standards but I think it is a really good adaptation of Thomas Mann's novel. If you like slow films, then by all means, this one is worth a watch.
The Merchant of Venice - This film has been remade several times. My preference is for the 2004 version with Al Pacino, Jeremy Irons and Joseph Feinnes.
The Anonymous Venetian - this is a beautiful Italian film from the 1970s that is really well acted and really pulls at the heart strings. Worth a watch.
The Italian Job - while Venice only features for part of the film, I love this movie and highly recommend it to everyone. The cast, crew and story are a lot of fun. Highly entertaining and easy for multiple viewings.
Moonraker - have to love James Bond. This is the first of two Bond films that feature Venice that I think are worth viewing. Moonraker is a personal favourite of mind although the choice of Bond actor is not my favourite (I really like Connery although I admit that Daniel Craig is doing a good job currently as James Bond).
Casino Royale - Daniel Craig does a wonderful job being the new James Bond in this film. It is definitely worth a watch. All class action.
Cassanova - I love Heath Ledger as an actor (not just because he is Australian). He does a great job in this film as does the rest of the cast. It is a fun film. No heavy lifting required.
The Comfort of Strangers - the cast in this film is wonderful and it really is incredibly clever in the way that the story evolves. Definitely worth a watch for those that like to think about films for a while afterwards.
Il Fornaretto di Venezia (ala The Scapegoat) - wonderful 1963 Italian film that has good acting and a great story. Worth a watch if you can track down a copy.
Senso - a 1950s film by Luchino Visconti which will not appeal to everyone but I loved it. If you are a budding film maker, by all means see this film.
That's it for today. Do you have a favourite film that is set in Venice - if so let me know.
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