 |
|
|
|
Breaking Away (1979)
 email this review to a friend
Movie Review by Zara 
January 23rd, 2007
|  |
Viva Italia!
One of the coolest things about having a kid is getting the chance to expose them to movies that you liked when you were their age. BREAKING AWAY was one of those those movies for me, and sitting with my (almost) 6 year old daughter, I was able to enjoy the movie on a whole new level. Even though the movie is now more than 25 years old, its appeal remains firmly intact. There is a very good reason why it is number 8 on AFI's Top 100 Most Inspiring Movies of All Time list. Plus it managed to inspire my kid to run around shouting "Bravo, Mama! Bellissimo!!"
The story revolves around a group of friends who've graduated from high school but still haven't decided on what they plan on doing with their lives. They're all sons of stone cutters and are looked down upon by the wealthy college students residing in the same town. The lead character, Dave, is a cycling enthusiast obsessed with the Italian racing team. He's adopted the Italian language and culture, much to the dismay of his father. After some scuffles with a few frat boys, the college agrees to include a racing team comprising of the town locals in their cycling event.
Much of this movie's message could have been dampened over the years if it had fallen into many of the era's cliches. Thankfully, there are no scenes anywhere near a discotech or roller skating rink. We're also spared a dated soundtrack, as the director very wisely uses various Italian concertos to set the mood and pace of the movie. The end is predictable, but in a manner which does not leave you with a sour taste in your mouth. Dennis Quaid and Daniel Stern are perfect additions to the cast, as is Barbara Barrie, who earned a Best Supporting Actress Oscar nomination for her role as Dave's understanding mother.
email this review to a friend
Comment on this Review:
Sorry, you must be a member to add comments to reviews.
Join or Login. |
 Subscribe to MatchFlick Movie Reviews through RSS
|
