Movie spotlight
A Talking Picture
A meditation on civilization. July, 2001: friends wave as a cruise ship departs Lisbon for Mediterranean ports and the Indian Ocean. On board and on day trips in Marseilles, Pompeii, Athens, Istanbul, and Cairo, a professor tells her young daughter about myth, history, religion, and wars. Men approach her; she's cool, on her way to her husband in Bombay. After Cairo, for two evenings divided by a stop in Aden, the captain charms three successful, famous (and childless) women, who talk with wit and intellect, each understanding the others' native tongue, a European union. The captain asks mother and child to join them. He gives the girl a gift. Helena sings. Life can be sweet.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in Lisbon and Rome, the film follows the intellectual and emotional journey of Daniel, a professor of literature. He is working on a book about the relationship between the Portuguese poet Luís Vaz de Camões and the Italian Renaissance. As he delves into his research, he encounters various characters, including a beautiful singer and a mysterious opera director, who bring unexpected dimensions to his life and work. The narrative weaves together history, art, and personal reflection, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the power of storytelling.
Critical Reception
Manoel de Oliveira's 'A Talking Picture' received generally positive reviews, with critics often highlighting its intellectual depth and the director's distinctive cinematic style. While some found its pacing deliberate, many praised its elegant exploration of art, history, and human connection, appreciating the performances of its international cast.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its intellectual richness and sophisticated exploration of art and history.
Noted for the graceful direction of Manoel de Oliveira and elegant performances.
Some found the contemplative pace slow, but most appreciated its unique cinematic approach.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews and ratings for 'A Talking Picture' is not readily available.
Fun Fact
Manoel de Oliveira was one of the oldest working directors in cinema history, continuing to make films well into his second century, with 'A Talking Picture' being released when he was 95 years old.
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