Youth (2015)

A retired composer (Michael Caine) and a film director (Harvey Keitel) are vacationing at a luxury spa in the Swiss Alps. An emissary from Queen Elizabeth II (Alex Macqueen) approaches him to come out of retirement which he refuses. Meanwhile the director is desperately trying to complete the screenplay of what he imagines is his final film. To say I was overwhelmed is an understatement. Directed by Paolo Sorrentino, this ranks with his superb LA GRANDE BELLEZZA. I can't think of a director working today who has such a consistent and superb eye (with the assistance of his cinematographer Luca Bigazzi) with each frame looking like it's ready to be hung on a museum wall. But it's not just a case of pretty pictures, Sorrentino's compositions are integral to his setting and his characters. The film also serves as a reminder of why Michael Caine is considered one of the best actors of his generation. It's both emotionally perceptive and abundant in acumen and a coda that will have tears running down your cheek. As 2015 nears its end, I'm ready to declare it my favorite film of 2015! With Rachel Weisz, Paul Dano, Robert Seethaler and a kick ass cameo by Jane Fonda.