Life really is beautiful, when there are glorious imaginations that make such films possible. 

I feasted my Friday evening on this Italian production not really knowing what to expect. From the beginning I was swept up by the romantic Jewish-Italian waiter Guido Orefice (Roberto Benigni), and his Italian princess-forever Dora (Nicoletta Braschi).

The script is presented in two parts; the first being the romance and union of the couple, and the second part taking place five years and one son Giosue (Giorgio Cantarini) later.

Set in 1939, the young family enjoy a short-lived peace before being taken away to a concentration camp. It is here that the loving father shields his son from the horrors of the camp by turning each day and event into a game.  

The son Giosue is entrancing in his role, and the end result is a movie so touching and poignant that it is sure to stay with you after the last song has played.

I’m so glad to have stumbled on this one, definitely worth the time!