Today being Valentine's Day makes me think of all the hype that has gone into this day–the display of diamonds, retailers selling women's clothing in shades of red, restaurants having a set and exorbitant priced menu, and expensive roses –these “things” make the day contrived. The “things” that makes it special is simplicity. The joy of being a child and exchanging valentines; receiving an I love you card with no name, or expressing your emotions through a simple- be mine, unsigned. As a young adult making a hand-made valentine with lace and ribbons and composing a poem. And when your older, kissing your beloved like you mean it, as if your life depended on it–a case of do or die.
Italy is a romantic place. It's no wonder that Verona is where Shakespeare wrote Romeo & Juliet. I have a long list of favorite films but if I had to choose one, it too is Italian, one in which there are flashbacks of the most wonderful kisses on the silver screen.
Cinema Paradiso is a story where a boy develops a friendship with the fatherly projectionist, Alfredo, who takes a shine to the child and often lets him watch movies in the projection booth. In the several scenes of the movies being shown, there is frequent booing from the audience, during the "censored" sections. The films suddenly jump, missing a critical kiss or embrace. The local priest has ordered that these sections be cut out. It also has a lovely soundtrack. Enjoy the day with your cherished one and enjoy the view:
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