There are so many beautiful moments in this movie, so many brilliant performances, it's difficult to pick a few standouts. Penelope Cruz won an Oscar for her supporting role as Maria Elena, but really each part of this whole is deserving of recognition.
New Faces in Hollywood
Javier Bardem is certainly not new to acting; his filmography extends back to 1990 and covers dozens of projects in both film and TV. However, his first venture into American film was in 2006, with Goya's Ghosts. Last year he won an Oscar for his supporting role in No Country for Old Men, but fans of his work in that film will hardly recognize him as Juan Antonio, charmer and lover of Vicky, Cristina, and Maria Elena.
Rebecca Hall was seen briefly a few years ago, in The Prestige, and this past year in Frost/Nixon. Vicky Cristina was a real opportunity for her though, and her sense of potential is obvious in this role as the protective Vicky. For the first part of the movie she is continually chiding Cristina for her lack of discretion, prudence, and any ability to think through her decisions. All of this, only to fall for Juan Antonio, just as willful Cristina has.
The Telltale Signs of Woody Allen
There is a certain grace to Woody Allen’s storytelling. This sense of utter fluidity is helped along in Vicky Cristina by the elegance of Barcelona, and by the beauty of the Spanish that crops up frequently. All of these characters speak gently, conduct themselves with confidence, and the love stories seem to converge seamlessly. Even when Maria Elena (Cruz) moves in with Juan Antonio and Cristina, a former lover spying on her replacement, there is very little discord. A few arguments take place, and Juan Antonio raises his voice once.
Unfortunately, some of this effect is spoiled by voice-over narration, which continues throughout the film. The narration is not overwhelming, but it is mostly unnecessary, and the same information could definitely have passed through dialogue. It is an interruption to this otherwise peaceful film.
True to another of Allen’s tendencies, each of these characters (Vicky, Cristina, Maria Elena, and Juan Antonio) show their considerable weaknesses, and explore their damaging habits, but none of them make what could be seen as progress. None of them change their minds, or made any sacrifices for love, or grow to be more stable human beings. It makes the ending a little bittersweet, but it rings of authenticity and a quiet reality.
