I have never been out of the US, so I’m sure any place in Italy would be great!

After watching this movie, you’ll be dying to go to Italy, I’m sure.  And yes, Italy is GREAT 

There are all sorts of thrifty ways to save up for travel, as well as ways to manage expenses while on the road.  So maybe we’ll be seeing some of those kinds of tips from Karen. 

I hope you enjoy the movie, Karen.  I know I did!  (You can read what I thought about the movie in my movie review.)

A very BIG THANKS to Miramax and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment for providing the Enchanted April DVD for a giveaway.  It’s available for purchase at your favorite online or brick and mortal store.

Photo credit:  SXC

Post from: Fly Away Cafe

When I was asked if I’d like to review the movie Enchanted April, being released on DVD today, you know that I jumped at the opportunity.

Enchanted April is the story of two English women who decide to liven up their dreary lives by doing the unthinkable – renting a castle on the Italian Riviera, complete with staff. 

In 1920’s London, this degree of independence by women, to say nothing of deciding to spend their husband’s money in this way, is nothing short of daring.  In order to afford a month on the Riviera, the women must share the expenses with two other women, one a crusty and lonely widow, and the other a beautiful and aristocratic flapper.

These four women settle into a spectacular castle, draped with wisteria vines, and surrounded by beautiful, sunny gardens.  As you might expect when you throw together such an eclectic mix of personalities, there are fits and starts of friendship and pique, before a rhythm of life and friendship settles in.  By the time the husbands show up at the castle, the women have found new meaning in their life, and you know they’ll return to London with a renewed sense of purpose and joi de vivre.

I enjoyed the movie, not only for its rich, lush photography of Italy, teasing me that I’ll be there soon, but also because of how it explores the nature of women’s friendships.  As rich and lush as the scenery, if perhaps just a bit more complicated.  You can watch and decide for yourself.

After watching the film the first time, I’d recommend watching it a second time with the feature commentary.  It’s a second look at the movie, this time through the eyes of the director and producer.  They talk about why they made the choices they did, how they envisioned the characters and their friendships, and it’s a great way of exploring the movie a little more in depth.

The cast includes:  Josie Lawrence, Miranda Richardson, Joan Plowright, and Polly Walker as the four Englishwomen, and Alfred Molina and Jim Broadbent as the husbands.  The film received two Golden Globes, and was nominated for three Oscars.  You can now purchase it on DVD through your local store or online.

OR – you can enter for a chance to win a copy of the DVD right here at Flyaway Cafe!  Thanks Miramax and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment!

All you have to do is leave a comment telling me your favorite place in Italy (whether you’ve been there or just dream of being there).  I’ll keep the comments open until Friday at midnight (Pacific Time), and then pick a random winner.  

Photo credit:  Courtesy of Miramax and Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment

Post from: Fly Away Cafe