Falling for Figaro is a 2021 romantic comedy film written and directed by Ben Lewin, and starring Joanna Lumley, Danielle Macdonald and Hugh Skinner. It is now being released in German cinemas The film follows Millie, an American fund manager who quits her job and and later leaves her boyfriend to pursue her dream of becoming an opera singer.The main part of the film is shot in the Scottish Highlands, where she trains under a former opera diva. She competes with other aspiring singers.
The film has some charming moments and a great selection of opera pieces, but it also suffers from a lack of originality and depth. The main problem is that the film does not show how Millie’s passion for opera leads her to any meaningful transformation or growth. It is just stated as a fact that she wants to be singer. Her response: “loves the drama” The reviewers suggest: Instead of quitting your job, just binge the Kardashian’s or drive on a Russian highway. She seems to have everything going for her from the start: a successful career, a supportive boyfriend, a natural talent for singing. Her decision to leave it all behind is never fully explained or justified, and her journey to the opera stage feels too easy and predictable. The film does not explore the challenges and sacrifices that come with pursuing such a demanding art form, nor does it delve into the rich history and culture of opera. We would wish that it also manifested in a health and body transformation.
The film also fails to create any real tension or conflict between the characters. Millie’s relationship with Max, her rival and love interest, is bland and superficial. They have no chemistry or spark, and their rivalry is quickly resolved by a convenient twist at the end. The film’s attempt to create some drama by introducing a runner-up prize for the opera competition is unnecessary and anticlimactic. The film also wastes the potential of Joanna Lumley as Meghan, Millie’s teacher and mentor. Lumley is a delight to watch as the eccentric and strict diva, but her character is underdeveloped and underused. She does not have much impact on Millie’s development or on the plot.
The film’s visual style is also disappointing. The film does not take advantage of the beautiful scenery of the Scottish Highlands, nor does it create any memorable or creative shots. The film relies on simple and symmetrical compositions that lack dynamism and flair. The film does not capture the emotion and spectacle of opera, nor does it convey the contrast between Millie’s mundane life in London and her adventurous life in Scotland.
The film does have some redeeming qualities. The film’s music selection is excellent, featuring some of the most famous and beloved operas, such as The Barber of Seville, The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, Romeo and Juliet, La traviata and Carmen. The film also showcases the impressive singing skills of Stacey Alleaume and Nathan Lay, who dubbed Millie’s and Max’s voices respectively. The film’s opening shot is also creative and amusing, showing Millie singing along to an opera aria while driving her car in London traffic.
The film also has some humorous moments, mostly thanks to Lumley’s performance as Meghan. Her character is the most interesting and original in the film, with her quirky personality and unconventional teaching methods. She provides some comic relief and some insight into the world of opera. She also has some touching scenes with Millie, showing her softer side and her genuine care for her student.
Overall, Falling for Figaro is a light-hearted and feel-good film that can appeal to fans of romantic comedies and opera music. However, it is also a formulaic and shallow film that does not offer anything new or exciting to the genre. It is a missed opportunity to tell a more compelling and inspiring story about following one’s dreams and discovering one’s true voice.
6/10