Oscar-award winning film “Life Is Beautiful” is a remarkable movie that has impacted its viewers since its release in 1997. I first watched this film after my sister saw it in her high school history class, raving about the brilliance of the film. It’s no wonder why I fell in love with the story. It’s a classic! Check out these great moments from “Life Is Beautiful,” and I’m sure it’ll be in your collection in no time!
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Buongiorno Principessa
Buongiorno Principessa. Good-morning Princess. Whenever I hear this phrase, I instantly think of “Life Is Beautiful.” There is a point in the film when the family is in the concentration camp and the wife Dora is losing hope that her family is still alive. Then, her husband Guido and son Joshua break onto the loud speaker and say, “Buongiorno Principessa.” It makes me want to cry because it’s so meaningful to their relationship, as you know from earlier in the film, and Guido wanted to assure his wife that they were okay. Now that’s a man I’d like to have in my life!
In "Life is Beautiful," the phrase "Buongiorno Principessa" is a recurring theme that symbolizes the love and resilience of Guido and Dora's relationship. It is a phrase that holds deep meaning for the couple, as it is a reminder of their love and hope for the future. In the context of the film, it is also a powerful message of hope and reassurance for Dora when she is at her lowest point in the concentration camp. This phrase has become iconic and has been used in various forms of media and merchandise, showing the impact and significance of this moment in the film.
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Baths
What are the odds that Joshua doesn’t like taking baths? A striking moment that hit me during the film was when the boy refused to take a bath like the officers ordered. By hiding instead, he actually unknowingly saved his own life from the gas chambers. Something that seems as trivial as a child not wanting to take a bath can have such a big impact.
This scene is heartbreakingly poignant, as it encapsulates the innocence and instinct of children. Joshua's aversion to baths, something so mundane, transforms into a life-saving instinct. The filmmakers brilliantly juxtapose the simplicity of a child's dislike against the horrors of the Holocaust, adding a layer of dramatic irony. It shows us how fate can hinge on the smallest acts of rebellion, and turns what is usually a parental struggle into a moment of suspense and salvation, making us reflect on the unpredictable nature of life's journey.
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The Rules
The extent that Guido goes to protect his son from the horrors of the concentration camp inspires me. He turns their experience into a game. In one scene, Guido explains the rules to a crowd of inmates while a German officer speaks. You cannot cry, beg for your mother and ask for extra food or lollipops, he says. A father that goes to this extent to protect his son is definitely doing parenting right in my mind.
Guido's imaginative way of shielding his boy carves a beacon of hope amidst despair. It's not just the rules but his unwavering commitment to the belief in something better, despite their grim reality. This display of paternal love and creativity touches a deep chord. Love, not hate, speaks the loudest, even when surrounded by the bleakest of circumstances. This poignant act both warms and breaks hearts, showcasing an unparalleled strength of spirit.
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Coincidence
It’s hilarious in the start of the film how Guido goes about winning over his soon-to-be-wife Dora. She is engaged to someone else and yet Guido can’t live without this beautiful princess in his life. He stages various encounters that he insists are coincidence, though Dora knows otherwise. It’s funny and captivating!
Guido's whimsical determination gives Life is Beautiful its fairy-tale charm as he pulls off playful tricks, such as bumping into Dora by happenstance or conveniently appearing as the knight in shining armor at just the right time. His relentless pursuit is wrapped in humor, yet it holds a tenderness that underscores the film’s central theme: love conquering all. Dora’s amused skepticism turns to adoration, showcasing their budding romance in a sequence of charming escapades that sets the stage for the film's poignant narrative blend of laughter and heartfelt emotion.
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Belly Button
Can we take a moment to admire the perfect Aryan belly button? Guido continues to entertain me when he imitates a member of the National Fascist Party. His analogy to his superiority based on his incredible belly button shows the ridiculousness of the Nazis' racist thoughts. And of course, Dora is there and happens to witness this shining moment of Guido’s life.
In this scene, the contrast between Guido's lighthearted mockery and the horrific ideology that he's mimicking couldn't be more stark. It's a testament to his character—turning something so insidious into an absurdity. Dora's presence adds an extra layer, a silent acknowledgment of Guido's unique way of dealing with adversity. This particular scene is not just a highlight for its humor, but also for showcasing the resilience of the human spirit—finding laughter in the darkest places.
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Those who cannot learn from history are doomed to repeat it.
Dora
Though Dora is not Jewish, she goes to the concentration camp because her family is. I don’t necessarily agree that it was the wisest move on her part but it just goes to show the impact her family had on her life. Without them, she would be dead already. Since the first part of the film deals with the relationship between Guido and Dora, I feel this was an important part of the movie.
Dora's choice reflects a profound depth of love and sacrifice that speaks volumes about her character. Bravely stepping onto the train car reserved for Jews, her act is a poignant manifestation of unity and commitment to her husband and son. Throughout the ordeal, her presence is a beacon of hope and resilience, casting a tender light on the darkest of settings. Her courage underlines a central theme of the film: the enduring power of love and family, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.
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Human Spirit
While researching for this article, I stumbled upon a review written by Rotten Tomatoes. It was interesting to see how they described the film: “Life Is Beautiful is not about Nazis and Fascists, but about the human spirit.” The spirit that Guido creates for his son throughout the film just goes to show how far you can stretch yourself in order to protect someone you love. Their perseverance and hope amaze me.
“Life Is Beautiful” is an amazing film that words can’t express. It’s a classic, that’s for sure. What part of the movie stood out to you?
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