Is Life as It Is Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2003)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 2003, Life as It Is represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Drama category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into A wealthy dentist who spends the weekend wargaming with friends provokes a dangerous reaction from his wife, who slips a real gun among the fake ones. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "A wealthy dentist who spends the weekend wargaming with friends provokes a dangerous reaction from his wife, who slips a real gun among the fake ones. An old couple turns to child kidnapping to cover their gambling debts. A young librarian saves the mother of the kidnapped children and confesses her long-standing love for her, expressed through anonymous letters that sustained each other's lives. A college professor who captivates his students with lectures on what is truly important in life finds himself as usual lonely and forgotten on his birthday. A mosaic of souls searching for the meaning of life."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The ensemble, led by Valeria Bruni Tedeschi, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Drama genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Stefano Incerti is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 118 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Life as It Is truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.5/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Life as It Is explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2003 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Stefano Incerti respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Life as It Is serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Valeria Bruni Tedeschi or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Life as It Is is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.