La vida ante sí

It was an indescribable joy to watch the great star who became more and more beautiful like wine over the years. I just revere...

Although Sophia Loren has played too many parts to recount in her 86 years, The Life Ahead is probably as close as she will get to depicting an aging, caring senior who is about ready to leave permanently. The good deeds she, Madame Rosa, has done for others, especially youngsters, travel with her as we see how she guides her latest waif, 12-year-old Momo (Ibrahima Guye) from thief and dealer to loving child for an old lady.

While this premise may sound maudlin, it is not. Directed by her son, Eduardo Ponti, this melodrama with thriller touches is all about Momo finding love and connection and Rosa coming to terms with her Holocaust memories while doing her best good deeds at the end of her life. The screen has a few touching minor characters like Dr. Coen, who attends to Rosa also as a friend, and Lola (Abril Zamora), a transgender caregiver who shares affection with her dear old friend.

The Life Ahead is restrained with few high moments. Rather, small interactions lead to our seeing the good in every life, even those of which we don't approve. Rosa is a former hooker, about whom one couldn't harbor criticism or disdain. Like her friends, Lola gives succor when she can, indulges regrets when they come, and searches for love right to the end of the film.

She is "good" just as she tells Momo he is. And that's enough.

The movie is an emotional tour de force, taking the audience through the trials of age, loss, loneliness, tragedy, respect, religion, friendship, and life.

Sophia Loren is captivating and she's surrounded by a strong, supporting cast.

Sophia Loren at 86 has returned to us along with her Co-Star Ibrahima Gueye in her son's film. Though the film is a re-make and the story rather predictable, what is not is the performance of these two actors. The cast is good, but the leads are on a different level. And their final scenes together are deeply moving. I have never seen Ms Loren more touching and filled with grace, nor a 12-year-old boy more beautiful and talented. Sophia has given us a gift in both the film and this young actor whose future is so brilliant.

I checked on this movie after reading an article on NYT about Ms. Sophia Loren - an exemplary actress. I wasn't prepared for how emotional this movie will make me. I bawled several times while watching and it actually made me contemplate my latter years. Phenomenal acting by all (Madam Rosa, Momo, Lola ). I'll remember this movie for years to come. Please watch it in Italian then subtitle in your language . You won't regret it !!