80
The concept is not so much nihilistic as it is realistic, and the fact that Benigni has made such fine distinctions so powerfully clear is amazing and moving.
What are people saying?
What are critics saying?
90
TNT RoughCut by Christopher Brandon
Its unique message about laughing in the face of evil clearly reveals that life is beautiful.
0
Benigni's movie made me want to throw up.
50
Christian Science Monitor by David Sterritt
Has good intentions, but its exaggerated celebration of quick-witted improvisation ultimately trivializes the human and historical horrors evoked by the story.
100
Film.com by Elizabeth Weitzman
Benigni, with great help from young Cantarini, has crafted a work of such complexity that you may find both your brain and your heart simply overloaded. Which, of course, is the rarely achieved goal of all art.
80
The New York Times by Elvis Mitchell
Benigni effectively creates a situation in which comedy is courage. And he draws from this an unpretentious, enormously likable film that plays with history both seriously and mischievously. Piety has no place here, nor do tears until the final reel. Life is Beautiful plays by its own rules
20
Chicago Reader by Jonathan Rosenbaum
The indifference of the proceedings and the hero's slapstick behavior to the everyday realities of the camps borders on the nauseating.
50
San Francisco Chronicle by Mick LaSalle
Benigni sets out to do the impossible.
67
Entertainment Weekly by Owen Gleiberman
Starts out as sentimental whimsy and ends as sentimental kitsch.
70
While most reviewers will accuse it of sentimentality (a charge that is justified), audiences, who don't feel the need to appear rigorous and tough-minded all the time, will flock to it in droves.
This film really showcases how powerful family can be and how much a parent is willing to do for their child. Set in one of the most horrific times in history, the film presents a bittersweet narrative as the father shields his son from their harsh reality. No spoilers but get your Kleenex ready, I certainly needed plenty!