Review of Life Is Rosy

The average Western viewer will probably not get much out of this film. Given that in general we tend to have the attention-spans of gnats and like a lot of action in our films, La Vie est belle is a pretty forgettable film. BUT, it is an important film for a couple reason. First, teens could benefit from learning about African life and customs, so it can be recommended on that level. Also, for those who like international cinema, you'll probably have a higher tolerance for its lower production values and mundane nature of the plot--you don't need explosions and big-name actors to get you to watch a film. And, in either of these instances, the film will satisfy. It is a cute little movie about a man who wants to get married to wife #2 (while still married to wife #1--a custom that is not unheard of in many societies). Unfortunately, his poor ex-servant also wants this lady and does what he can to steal her from the rich man. Well, despite all this, in the end everyone seems pretty happy and the music ends. The film is lively, features a lot of modern tribally influenced music and an unusual plot.