Whatever! (2006) User Reviews

what a lovely short!!!

[marciasmithhayden · 9/10 · 30 April 2010]

On an unexpected subject - what a lovely short film! I have often seen these live sculptures on my trips, but never did I think I was going to see a lovely musical film based on their lives. Although it made me sad in the end. It is an ironic story of survival in well crafted, well paced, well edited and well shot piece. It has a distinct style of its own. It opens new reflections on entertainment, it makes you think. Que Sera Sera is so beautifully used. Florence looks breathtaking and the metaphors stand out. On the critical side the film would have benefited from some voice over or still imagery or an interview may be. But overall it succeeds in demanding deep attention and leaves behind a lingering cinematic experience. I was glad to find this title on IMDb.

streets of Florence never looked so meaningful

[greatfilmfan · 7/10 · 8 May 2010]

White and gray sculptures, white and gray humans, but myriad emotions.

I find the theme of repeating melody quite different. There is no narrative, but a strong sense of story.

Lyrical shot-taking seems to be director Dheeraj Akolkar's specialization. Every frame looks marvellous - nothing is out of place. He almost demands attention from the viewers, and asks them to look at what they hardly ever wait to see.

He presents the film almost like a homage to the city of Florence and it looks stunning. Some of the fallen leaves and darkening skies are such melancholy and meaningful images.

I had to see the film two times to understand its essence - just think it could have been simpler - for simple people like me...