Nine (2009) : A Review

Musicals have never fascinated me. Even classics like "Wizard of Oz" and "Sound of Music" could not grab my attention. But Rob Marshall's musicals have evoked a certain interest in them.

Nine is Marshall's second musical after Chicago. It tells the story of the star director Guido Contini (Daniel Day Lewis) who after giving a spate of flops, is struggling with the script of his come-back venture Italia. Luisa (Marion Cortillard) is Guido's wife who is an ex-starlet, now retired and supporting her husband. Though she has sacrificed her career for him, she often feels neglected by Guido. Carla (Penelope Cruz) is Guido's mistress who is madly in love with him and can not stay away from him. Stephanie (Kate Hudson) is a fashion journalist fascinated with the work of Guido. Lili (Judi Dench) is the costume designer for his movie. She is a friend who Guido confides in. There is Guido's late mother(Sophia Loren) whose always comforts him in moments of despair. Sara (Fergie), the prostitute from his childhood, who danced to him for money, and gave him the first ever lessons on sex. And finally his muse Claudia (Nicole Kidman) who has been his inspiration for most of his movies. Guido has to find the script for his movie while struggling to manage the relationship with his wife and the mistress while also seeking help from these women.

Nine is similar to Chicago in terms of the treatment, but is more personal in nature. You sympathize with the protagonist and relate to his problems. And the credit should definitely go to Daniel Day Lewis who has time and again proved that he is one of the greatest actors alive. His portrayal of a director who has to find a balance in his professional and personal life is brilliant. Marion Cortillard portrays her character with a lot of depth. Penelope Cruz once again proves that she is as versatile as they come. Nicole Kidman brings the aura of a diva to the character. And all the women look gorgeous in the songs. The actors should be lauded for their vocals and dancing skills as much for their acting. Special mention should go to the cinematographer who makes each and every frame look picture perfect with brilliant use of lighting. And finally the director who envisioned such a beautiful looking musical.


PS: I know its a musical based on the Broadway show which in turn was based on 8 1/2. But I am glad that I haven't watched the originals and hence safe from the comparison syndrome.

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Rated