Radio Days

Wir wurde etwas schlecht, als ich las, dass Woody von Fellini inspiriert wurde - aber letztendlich ist es nur eine nette kleine Radiogeschichte/ein Familienfresko einer typisch jüdischen amerikanischen Familie, die nicht einmal vom Zweiten Weltkrieg entzweit wird. Der Erzähler ist ein Junge, der direkt aus Dickens bzw. einer (autobiografischen) italienischen Familiennostalgie stammt, in der die Jungs hauptsächlich hübschen MILFs nachstellen. Das Produktionsdesign nähert sich langsam der Epoche an, in der der Film spielen soll (wir enden in der Silvesternacht 1943), und die Tatsache, dass Woodys Lieblinge Mia Farrow und Dianne Wiest nicht fehlen, macht es konsumierbar. (18.05.2013)

The 80s suited Allen, and he made one hit after another back then. I'm not sure if Radio Days is his best film, and to be honest, I doubt it (for example, I prefer Love and Death), but it is definitely his most personal film, in which he confesses his love for everything that shaped his childhood and adolescence. It's somewhat similar to Amarcord, at least in terms of nostalgic reminiscence of the past. Allen skillfully blends reality with fiction, viewing the world through the eyes of a slightly romantic and mischievous boy who tries what the surroundings allow him. The portrayal of family members is great, played by Allen's favorite and well-coordinated actors. Especially the part of Mia Farrow and her legendary character Sally is fabulous, and Dianne Wiest is also excellent as the wedding-seeking aunt. Allen's look back into the past is pleasant, World War II only forms a marginal background, and the destinies of the characters are rather influenced by the treacherous attack of Martians from Orson Welles' famous radio play. Radio Days is a great retro film that is excellently cast, and has amazing music. Overall impression: 85%. (09.11.2009)

Charmingly retro, that's how I like Woody Allen best. And I must admit, I envy him that dreamy look back at his childhood. I know I shouldn't, but I just can't help it. It made me smile and laugh for eighty-five minutes. (28.01.2014)

This time, Allen is tuned into a strong nostalgic wave, more than ever before. That's why I would recommend him to everyone, including the director's most stubborn opponents. Anyone who doesn't melt during the brilliant passage with the baseball player surely has no sense of humor. (12.12.2005)