Nine

Nine is the latest musical film to hit the big screen. Nine is based upon Arthur Kopit's book by the same name, which in addition was derived from an Italian autobiographical film 8 1/2 by Frederico Fellini. Directed and produced by Rob Marshall, creator of 'Chicago', it is a musical that places itself far from cliche storylines which seem to be emerging regularly within musicals.

Nine follows Italian hotshot director Guido Contini (Daniel Day-Lewis) who struggles to keep a hold of his life as a midlife crisis stifles his imagination and causes him to become involved in several romantic ties. As he finds it more and more difficult to write his next film 'Italia'; we see the balance he must try and maintain between each of the formative woman in his life.

The woman in his life seem to represent a different part of Guido and reveals his different sides to the audience. This is shown successfully through his wife Luisa (Marion Cottilard); his mistress Carla Albanese (Penelope Cruz); his film star muse Claudia (Nicole Kidman); his conscience and costume designer (Judi Dench); American fashion journalist Stephanie (Kate Hudson); Saranghina, a prostitute from his youth (Fergie); and his mother (Sophia Loren).

Throughout the film it is clear to see the theatrical influences in the representation of the story as we see the characters depict their thoughts through singing and dancing across assorted stages. The problem with some musicals is when the songs repeatedly seem to be out of place, in Nine, Marshall successfully draws himself away from this category as the songs are used in order to depict each characters thoughts rather than being a part of the character's initial dialogue with another person. Sadly not all the songs were preformed well and this sometimes brings the film down.

Daniel Day-Lewis presents the role of Guido to the audience magnificently. He brings the role to life and it is truly a joy to watch him preform his art. The good thing about having a cast consisting mainly of academy award winners is that the story seems to be brought to life, the story of Guido becomes real as the actors successfully play their roles to their maximum potential.

Nine was definitely a joy to watch and it was fascinating to see so many highly ranked actors working together. Unfortunately sometimes the audience gets lost amongst the chaos of Guido's life and as some of the songs were not preformed; well it brings the movie down. All in all I believe this is a great feel-good movie and I do recommend it.

4/5