A Walk in the Clouds (1995)

When it’s over, it's the end of WWII and Paul (Keanu Reeves) returns home to find he doesn’t have much in common with the wife he left behind.  While on a business trip, contemplating over his feelings, he meets a young woman, Victoria (Aitana Sanchez-Gijon), who fears her domineering father will kill her when he finds out she is pregnant and alone.  Paul decides to pose as her husband for one day, which leads to unexpected results.  Reeves has not been known for his strong acting abilities, but I think he pulled off an honest portrayal of Paul, showing decency, kindness, and courage in the face of unfairness and ridicule.  Helping Reeves along was a strong supporting cast including Anthony Quinn, Debra Messing, and Giancarlo Giannini.  There definitely was a timeless feel to this film, which wasn’t surprising since this version was one of three remakes based on the classic Italian film, Quattro passi fra le nuvole (1942).  I felt like I was watching a piece of artwork unfold.  With Director Alfonso Arau (Like Water for Chocolate - 1992) at the canvas, this work of art completely drew me in with its passion and longing.  The palette of browns and greens brought to life a post-war vineyard that not only enticed the eyes, but also aroused the senses.  There was a sense of ease in Arau’s storytelling, like snuggling up to a good book, unfolding page per page, one stroke of the brush at a time.  Definitely a good addition to any collector of romantic films. 

My rating: 3.5 out of 5