Under the Riccione Sun

"Sotto il sole di Riccione" is a sun-kissed, feel-good summer film that whisks one into a reverie of nostalgia-those picturesque Italian seaside settings and the overall youthful energy. It has an ensemble cast, so be prepared for a refreshing charm as it captures the spirit of a group of friends meandering through love and friendship on a summer holiday. Despite this, how much the film borrows from familiar tropes in romance and a quite predictable plot line may be off-putting to some viewers who want something more in depth and originally, respectively. While it succeeds in light-hearted entertainment and brilliant visuals, its character development and emotional complexity are shallow and probably leave this film feeling like more of a summer fling than really one of the lasting cinematic impressions.

Or is it heartache? Sometimes it is the same, yes? Depending on your experience often times? Ok let's not go there. But young people having fun in the summer - what can go wrong? I know - I wasn't really expecting you to answer that either. The movie is well intentioned at least and there are many feelings and even someone who has his sight impaired (is that the correct way to say that?), but still looking for love? And why not - using a pun here? I hope you don't mind. Very nicely shot, do not expect this to be more than it is - a comedy that still is going to be able to touch your heart, if you are open for it of course. Flaws not withstanding - let's give a round of applause. Well sort of - and another pun intended.

It's okay that this movie is completely ridiculous and idiotic, with actors without any quality, a script that borders on stupidity, and a steakhouse musician soundtrack, ok, there is (bad) taste for everything. What can't be accepted is that such crap doesn't have at least the slightest concern in a cast that has about 8 to 10 main actors, about 10 to 20 supporting actors and about 1000 extras (counting the audience at the show, on the beach and in the nightclub), not having only one single person who is not white. Not a single one. I took the trouble to pause the scenes and do a search like "Where's Wally?" in the crowd at the final show and I didn't even find it. Thousands of people in more than 1 hour of projection and a parade of strictly 100 percent white people. 0 out of 10.

This is an exemplary teen summer movie. Appealing characters, boy meets girl, boy loses girl, bog gets girl. And it takes place at the Italian beach. It really can't be better. I've watched it twice and will watch it again.