Biutiful

“Biutiful” stars Javier Bardem in this film directed and co-written by Mexican director Alejandro Inarritu (“Babel”) who gives to the audience every possible emotion and involvement through the superb acting of Mr. Bardem. He is in every scene as the camera and script carry him and the viewer through his sad and doomed path as a father, son and brother in what becomes two hours and 27 minutes of a really dry and morbid journey. This is an intense film and much too long for the story it tells. Editing here could have made the film more enjoyable (if that is the right word) but it seems that the director placed too high a value on the takes and scenes he filmed instead of the patience and comfort of the viewer. Sometimes less is more and that adage certainly would apply here. That being said, Mr. Bardem gives an outstanding performance and is far greater in the role he plays than the film in which he appears. I give the film 2 and ½ stars thanks to the efforts and presence of Javier Bardem and in spite of the talents of Mr. Inarritu.