Woody Allen writes, directs and stars in this picturesque but morally misguided romp through the Eternal City, featuring a confusing quartet of stories about the search for romance, happiness and – all too frequently – sin. A retired opera director (Allen) discovers a potential star in the person of an undertaker (Fabio Armiliato) who only sings in the shower. A honeymoon couple (Alessandra Mastronardi and Alessandro Tiberi) face twin temptations: He at the hands of a sexy prostitute (Penelope Cruz), she at those of a sleazy movie star (Antonio Albanese). A famous architect (Alec Baldwin) takes on a protege (Jesse Eisenberg) who reminds him of himself in youth, and coaches the lad in the art of seduction. An ordinary man (Roberto Benigni) becomes a media sensation for no apparent reason, only to find his life turned upside down.
Watch out for: A benign view of adultery and nonmarital sex, much sexual innuendo, some uses of profanity and of rough language.
Rated: The Catholic News Service classification is L – limited adult audience, films whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R – restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
