Vitus (2006)

Vitus won us over

Vitus captured our attention and held it throughout. For us, it was a wonderful film experience. I was delighted by the pianists and by the world & family that was portrayed. In a word, refreshing. My husband, the critic of all movie critics, watched it twice more before we had to return it (!). As an intelligent man, it was fun daydreaming fodder to imagine he had his investing and deal-making skills at age 12. For a picky family that buys a movie MAYBE once a year (though we watch many), this was our choice. I'm buying one for my mom, too. August 14, 2008

Virtuosity

An exceptional film about genius: its costs; its rewards. There is no greater gift--this film teaches--than one's individuality. . .Follow that star.

In the extra "The Making of Vitus" a cast member states a good film makes him cry five times and laugh at least five times. See "Vitus", and keep count. July 24, 2008

Almost great

Vitus is a prodigy, not only of the piano, but of math and much else besides. His well intentioned mother essentially smothers Vitus with unintended consequences. A loving grandfather plays a big role in this. (Nope, I'm not going to give much away here since it is very easy to spoil this movie by providing too much detail.)

Suffice it to say that Vitus is a one-of-a-kind child, brilliant and wise (with the help of grandpa) beyond his years.

Unfortunately, in an attempt to make the many sub-plots work, some hokey elements are introduced which took some of the enjoyment out of the movie for me. At a couple of points, I literally had to say "C'mon, give me a break!"

But overall, "Vitus" is a wonderful little movie about love, genius and growing up. Lots of fun.

Jerry June 16, 2008

Classic Cinema From Switzerland

This brilliant fable about a child prodigy struggling to take flight remains among the few masterpieces in recent years. Swiss director Fredi M. Murer elicits superb performances from Fabrizio Borsani and Teo Gheorghiu (who portray the boy pianist at ages 6 and 12, respectively) while maintaining a charmingly eccentric tone. Bruno Ganz is wonderful as Vitus' grandfather. I would not change a single frame. June 6, 2008

conquering genius

While many movies have wrestled with the subject of the child prodigy, often they succumb to the opportunity to present an amazing youth, hence another child winds up like an amazing trained monkey stunning an audience. Finally, a film has arrived that takes on the deep burden of talent with sensitive,out-of-the-box understanding. While fantastical, this story nonetheless captures the profound burden of genius. What this wonderful child does about his talent, that is to say, how he finally comes to terms with himself, is a deeply moving tale.A real pianist, too.

S Mann June 1, 2008

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