Italian For Beginners (DVD 2003)

The Danes started the Dogme method of movie-making back in 1995 and this, the 12th film to make it past the stringent standard is a modern masterpiece.

Set in a non-descript Danish town, this is a story of thirty-somethings searching for love and companionship. This is a study of how love blossoms, explored through the beginning of three new relationships. It is an essay on the pros and cons of each form of human affair.

1- Lust and desire, the passion inevitably leading to a fast consumation followed by tumultuous courting and calming into warmth.

2- The need for companionship bringing two people closer and closer together before finally a spark ignites the building tension.

3- Puppy love, is it unrequited, the butterflies, the averted gazes. The realisation that the feelings are mutual. The wonderful first kiss.

I would highly recommend this film. Unlike the usual Hollywood tripe, this is a romantic comedy of the highest calibre. It is truly touching without being overly sentimental and laugh out loud funny at times. Definitely one to watch!