The First Beautiful Thing (2010) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The First Beautiful Thing (La prima cosa bella), directed by Paolo Virzì, is a 2010 Italian dramedy that combines nostalgia, humor, and deep emotional resonance to tell a story about family, love, and the complexities of relationships. This film, set against the backdrop of both the 1970s and the 2000s, offers a poignant exploration of the bonds between a mother and her children, and the way memories—both beautiful and painful—shape our lives. In this review, we’ll discuss the film’s plot, performances, and themes, as well as where you can stream or purchase The First Beautiful Thing online in the United States.
Plot Overview: A Journey Through Time and Family
The First Beautiful Thing tells the story of Bruno Michelucci (played by Valerio Mastandrea), a disillusioned and depressed high school teacher in his 40s who is reluctantly drawn back into the life of his family when he learns that his mother, Anna (Stefania Sandrelli), is terminally ill. The narrative alternates between the present day, where Bruno grapples with his feelings toward his mother and his troubled past, and the 1970s, when his mother was a young and vibrant woman.
In the flashbacks, we see a young Anna (Micaela Ramazzotti) crowned as the “most beautiful mother” at a local beauty contest, an event that sets the stage for the challenges and joys that will define her life and that of her children. The film explores Anna’s life as a single mother raising Bruno and his sister Valeria (Claudia Pandolfi) amid societal pressures, economic struggles, and her own unfulfilled dreams.
As Bruno revisits these memories, he is forced to confront the complex emotions he harbors toward his mother—resentment, admiration, and a deep, if often unspoken, love. Through this journey, Bruno begins to find a way to reconcile with his past and understand the sacrifices and choices that have shaped his life.
Performance Highlights: A Cast That Breathes Life into the Characters
The film’s performances are central to its emotional impact, with each actor bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. Valerio Mastandrea delivers a compelling performance as Bruno, capturing the character’s inner turmoil and gradual transformation as he reconnects with his mother. His portrayal of a man who is both bitter and vulnerable is one of the film’s highlights.
Micaela Ramazzotti shines as the young Anna, bringing a vivacious and radiant energy to the role. Her performance balances the character’s light-heartedness and optimism with the struggles and heartache she faces as a single mother. Ramazzotti’s ability to convey both the joy and pain in Anna’s life makes her character deeply relatable and sympathetic.
Stefania Sandrelli, as the older Anna, delivers a nuanced performance that captures the dignity and grace of a woman facing the end of her life. Sandrelli’s portrayal of Anna in her later years is both poignant and powerful, embodying the enduring spirit of a woman who has lived life on her own terms.
Claudia Pandolfi also deserves praise for her role as Valeria, Bruno’s sister, who provides a counterbalance to Bruno’s cynicism with her more grounded and pragmatic approach to life and their mother’s illness.
Direction and Cinematography: A Warm and Nostalgic Atmosphere
Paolo Virzì’s direction is marked by a delicate balance between humor and drama, allowing the film to explore serious themes without becoming overly heavy or sentimental. Virzì skillfully weaves together the past and present, creating a narrative that feels seamless and cohesive despite the shifts in time. His ability to evoke both the charm of the 1970s and the more somber tone of the present day adds layers of depth to the film.
The cinematography, by Nicola Pecorini, complements the film’s nostalgic tone with warm, golden hues in the flashbacks, which contrast with the cooler, more subdued palette of the present-day scenes. This visual distinction enhances the emotional impact of the story, emphasizing the contrast between the vibrant past and the more melancholic present.
The film’s score, composed by Carlo Virzì, further enhances the mood, with music that reflects the changing emotions and tones of the story. The use of period music in the flashback scenes also adds to the film’s nostalgic appeal, transporting viewers to a different time and place.
Themes and Interpretation: Love, Memory, and Reconciliation
The First Beautiful Thing is a film rich in themes, exploring the enduring impact of family relationships and the ways in which our memories shape our identities. At its core, the film is about the complexity of the mother-child relationship, examining how love can be both a source of comfort and a cause of pain.
The film also delves into themes of memory and reconciliation. Through Bruno’s journey, The First Beautiful Thing suggests that understanding and accepting the past is essential to finding peace in the present. The film invites viewers to reflect on their own relationships and the ways in which their past has influenced who they are today.
The title of the film, The First Beautiful Thing, refers to a song that Anna sings to Bruno as a child, symbolizing the small moments of joy that can have a lasting impact on our lives. This theme of finding beauty in life’s imperfections is woven throughout the film, offering a message of hope and resilience.
Where to Watch The First Beautiful Thing Online
The First Beautiful Thing is available on several streaming platforms and digital rental services in the United States:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The First Beautiful Thing is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film in high definition on a variety of devices, and it can also be rented or purchased for those without a subscription.
- Hulu: The film is also available on Hulu, offering another option for streaming in high definition. Hulu’s platform is compatible with a wide range of devices, making it accessible for viewers.
- Tubi: For those looking for a free streaming option, The First Beautiful Thing can be found on Tubi. While Tubi is ad-supported, it provides access to a variety of films without a subscription fee.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Apple iTunes: Apple iTunes offers The First Beautiful Thing for rent or purchase. The film is available in high definition, and iTunes purchases often include bonus material such as interviews and behind-the-scenes content.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The First Beautiful Thing can also be rented or purchased on Google Play. This platform allows for streaming on Android devices, web browsers, and through Chromecast, providing multiple viewing options.
- Vudu: Vudu provides both rental and purchase options for the film, with high-definition streaming available. Vudu’s service is compatible with a wide range of devices, offering flexibility for viewers.
Final Thoughts
The First Beautiful Thing is a heartfelt and beautifully crafted film that offers a touching exploration of family, memory, and the passage of time. Paolo Virzì’s direction, combined with strong performances from the cast, creates a film that is both emotionally resonant and deeply human.
For those who appreciate films that delve into the complexities of relationships and the bittersweet nature of life, The First Beautiful Thing is a must-watch. Its availability on multiple streaming platforms and digital services makes it easy to experience this moving story from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re drawn to its nostalgic charm, its rich emotional depth, or its universal themes, The First Beautiful Thing is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
