ShadyBerero

This is a documentary with huge heart and charm. I was surprised by how much I liked it and how quickly and deeply engaging it was. While it feels quite unstructured, being raphsodic in footage from before, during and after pandemic lock-downs and following the owner's mercurial prosaic verbal flights from book to book and subject to subject, this is a huge part of the warmth and sense of connection it conveys. This very natural, almost raw style of the footage works to immerse the viewer into the little book shop and into the interactions between the owner, customers, staff and family. I sense the director has a deep love of books, book shops (maybe a connection to this particular bookstore?) and the love shines through the film. For a documentary filmed entirely within a very small spatial confine - and budget, resource and then pandemic confines - it has quite an expansive feel, and a big message of connection and humanity, kindness and patience. Thoroughly recommend this as a relaxing, uplifting, thoughtful tonic especially but not exclusively for book lovers.

One of the best food, cooking and travel documentaries I have seen - a true stand out in the genre. Really exceptional - has loads of charm and charisma between locations, presentation by Tucci who is very natural in his interactions with the varied assortment of local chefs, restaurateurs and foodies he interviews. Beautiful visually, at times very atmospheric, and just a lovely, engaging and delicious watch.

Both series are of similar very high quality and it is just disappointing the series does not seem like it will be completed to visit every region of Italy, part of the interest was the nicely drawn and observed differences that were drawn out in each episode.

The central characters give two of the most captivatingly watchable, magnetic acting performances I have seen in quite a few years.

This is a bitter sweet romantic story of first love/ infatuation which is unfolded slowly but with great charm and feeling. The script and acting are subtle, astutely observed and ultimately very moving. Some of the small details - like the way Adam imitates Kol's sighs, or the stolen glances of attraction across the car demonstrate beautiful observation, the substantial skill and impactful screen presence of the actors and a very well crafted script.

Overall I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this film - I ended up watching it twice in a couple of days.