Beautiful people and stunning locations offer as much of a visual treat as food for thought in this light-hearted but insightful comedy.
Two friends, free-spirited Christina (Scarlett Johansson) and soon-to-wed Vicky (Rebecca Hall), are holidaying in Spain when they are offered somewhat of an indecent proposal by smove talking painter Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem, last seen in a very different role in No Country For Old Men).
He promises to sweep them off their feet with sight seeing, good food, expensive wine and passionate love-making.
To watch the girls’ polar opposite responses is a delight to watch and says a lot about how we each respond to a stranger’s advances.
Christina considers him attractive, mysterious and exciting while Vicky thinks he is sleazy and potentially dangerous.
It’s as if the mechanisms of someone’s conscience are being played out as a conversation.
The situation is only complicated further when Juan Antonio’s fiery ex Maria (Penélope Cruz) returns to the scene.
At this stage, Allen explores the idea that romance dies when relationships strengthen as romance relies on the disbalance between two people while long-term relationships restore that balance.
Its a fascinating idea that is explored to the full in the film.
Barcelona may be new for the veteran director in terms of setting but the dialogue makes it instantly recognisable as one of Allen’s works, reminiscent of his earlier films like Annie Hall.
It goes to show that if directors return to their roots, good things can happen.
George Lucas should take note.
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