Modigliani

This is a film that, from what I gather, the critics hated with passion. I agree that Modigliani as a film has major flaws. Although for the most part the performance of the actors is decent, and in some instances remarkable, by moments the film drifts into melodrama. That was particularly so when the camera visits the studio of the painters competing for the Salon des artists prize. This was a dramatically critical moment for the narrative because it depicts the serenity of an artist who otherwise was a talented man drifting rapidly into alcoholism and self-destructive behavior. Unfortunately, at a critical moment when the director failed in imparting adequate acting directions to the other actors, forcing them to over play the stress of the characters they were representing. This scene accounts for the film's major failure. A more sober performance by the actors would have produced the wonderful dramatic contrasting effect sought by a beautiful musical soundtrack. Yet, and in spite of its failures, the film was able to recover much of its luster. The last scene saved the film from being an abject failure. I am referring to the scene when, once concluded Modigliani's funeral, Picasso - Amadeo Modigliani's nemesis - noted the child. This scene, as the once in the bar depicting Modiglianiâ