Paolo Sorrentino’s Youth, a film he both wrote and directed, transports us to a lavish Alpine hotel populated by vibrant characters and offering plentiful spa treatments. Here, we are introduced to Fred and Mick, old friends portrayed by Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel. They are present for distinct reasons: Mick (Keitel), a veteran director and screenwriter, is crafting what he believes will be his final, crowning achievement. Fred (Caine), conversely, grapples with a near-apathetic existence, having retired from a successful career as a composer and conductor, showing no inclination to return.
The two octogenarians spend their time together, wandering the Swiss mountains, contemplating their lives and the nature of transience. Fred, burdened by his history as an absent and emotionally detached father who prioritized music above all else, faces challenging situations with his daughter Lena, brilliantly played by Rachel Weisz, as she confronts him with both past and present family issues. Mick struggles to finalize the ending of his new film, but soon encounters far greater challenges.
Sorrentino treads a delicate line, where a slight misstep could render Youth a pretentious and convoluted mess. However, he deftly avoids this pitfall throughout the film. Each scene becomes remarkably potent, thanks to a superb script that offers multi-layered and profound dialogue, both darkly melancholic and humorously engaging, without ever feeling contrived. The film is consistently interesting, thought-provoking, and enjoyable, leaving the viewer yearning for it not to end. We witness seemingly minor dilemmas within the broader world, which hold significant, life-altering consequences for our protagonists. The music, prominently featured throughout, is exquisitely chosen, perfectly complementing the atmosphere within the luxurious hotel.
Paul Dano, another guest at the hotel, delivers a commendable performance as a successful yet jaded actor seeking to understand the essence of his character for an upcoming role. Dano’s performance is exceptionally strong, possibly the best of his career to date. While Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel are the leads in this magnificent drama and are captivating in every scene, Rachel Weisz and Paul Dano provide especially compelling performances. It speaks to Sorrentino’s mastery that every role, even the smallest, is rendered unforgettable. Youth makes a remarkably strong start to the film year, proving to be a must-see film. The two hours pass quickly, and one is reluctant to leave the cinema afterward, wanting only to remain and appreciate the experience. Few films manage to be so thought-provoking and entertaining simultaneously.
Så här sätter vi betyg på Senses