Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) (Full Frame Edition)

Take a wonderful BOOK and mix with 99% Hollywood

By Brahms_Blue_Rose  Feb 6, 2004 | 1 out of 2 found this Under the Tuscan Sun (2003) review helpful

Pros: It was filmed in Tuscany. Diane Lane is a decent actress.

Cons: Hollywood got their hands on this book.

Long before Frances Mayes book "Under the Tuscan Sun" became a 'block' for Hollywood's chopping, I was a big fan. The first book I read by Ms. Mayes was titled "Bella Tuscany" and...having always wanted to go there my...self for an extended period...I found her book intoxicating! The wording she chose and the scenerio she set in this reader's mind transported me to Tuscany without ever having left the comfort of my own home and Country. Next up was "Under the Tuscan Sun" which was equally fascinating and drew me in. Then, on to a book about poetry by Frances. You see, there are some stories that are told that "Hollywood" should simply N-O-T get their slimy hands on. This was one of them. This 'movie' is so loosely based on Ms. Mayes book that I am surprised she allowed it to be made. She's in good company though. An old favorite of mine, "Stephen King" is suffering from almost the same infliction that I see Mayes headed for. King was once a fantastic storyteller. I could name a 'certain story' about an evil wizard and a son in a palace but, then again, THAT was BEFORE King let Hollywood lead his stories to the 'slaughter' and then he began 'writing' hi stories as if already writing for a made-for-TV-movie thereby 'losing' his ability. To Frances Mayes I say, "Please, do NOT let "Hollyweird" get ahold of "Bella Tuscany". That's all I ask". Read more Less