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As war clouds gather over the small Greek islands in the early 1940's, Dr. Iannis (John Hurt)
dissuades his daughter Pelagia (Penelope Cruz) from marrying Madras (Christian Bale). Instead, they are betrothed. When Madras leaves for the warfront, a s4mall Italian
contingent under the command of Capt. Antonio Corelli (Nicholas Page) occupies their smallisland of Cephalonia. Capt. Corelli turns out to be an unorthodox officer. He loves
to play his mandolin. He and his men spend most of their time singing opera and gamboling in the beach. In spite of Pelagia's initial dislike, they fall for each other. Soon,
Madras returns and learns of the relationship. Meanwhile, Hitler's and Mussolini's forces suffer reverses. Madras informs Corelli of the Germans' treachery against their
allies, the Italians. He asks Corelli to help the Greeks resist the impending German invasion of their island. Will Corelli trust his rival? Or will he continue to side with
the Germans? What about his relationship with Pelagia?
In the tradition of the fondly remembered "Casablanca" and the more recent "Pearl
Harbor," this film tells another story of a love that blooms in the midst of war. Though a much watered-down version of Louis de Bernieres more spirited World War II
novel, it enthralls the viewer with its excellent photography of the famous Mediterranean and its idyllic countryside. This, as well as the appealing romantic melodies,
provides the ambiance for some inspired dialogue about love and life. But it is the well-drawn character of Dr. Iannis who speaks with the wisdom of the heart. Surprisingly,
the lovers are tongue-tied most of the time. The war makes a man out of the easy-going and fun-loving Corelli. However, for an Italian, known as among the world's best lovers,
he is too timid and restrained. Pelagia has more fire as she naturally resents the foreigners but she, too, can do with less reticence and a little more passion.
In this particular film, love is indeed a many-splendored thing. The viewer waits in
excitement as he watches how Pelagia grows on Antonio and vice-versa. Here is a love that is not merely physical. As Dr. Iannis says, true love is what remains after the great
upheaval or eruption subsides. The quiet, deep affection between him and his daughter Pelagia warms the heart. How they can disagree, yet understand each other! Then, the love
of both for everyone in the village is shown through their selfless service. The young men of the village love freedom and their own home island more than they love their
lives. The film does not only teach us how to love. It also shows us how to live. When disaster strikes, the people remain unshaken in their faith. For as Dr. Iannis says,
"When you survive, God must have a reason."
(Date reviewed: November 16, 2001)
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