MovieChat Forums > La leggenda del pianista sull'oceano (1998) Discussion > Why was this panned by critics?

Why was this panned by critics?

posted 9 years ago by cooler56
12 replies | jump to latest

This movie was not a bad movie. It is clearly a beloved favorite by many moviegoers. So why all the hatred from critics?

My theory is that this movie was not a Hollywood darling so it got snubbed by the industry. I think this movie has kept well after all these years. It has a beautiful soundtrack by the legendary Morricone.

In contrast, Titanic was lauded by critics, but it has become less and less popular over the years. It hasn't aged well, it's a cliche melodrama with lots of special effects.

[–] catbookss 9 years ago

I didn't know it was hated by the critics. Difficult to understand why, it's a beautiful, intelligent, inventive film. Where did you read the critic-hatred of it? I'd like to read that myself.

[–] catbookss 9 years ago

Never mind. I forgot there are direct links to critical reviews right here. It's been a long day, and I'm tired.

Anyway, I've just read three, and I see what you mean. I have no idea why it was panned so badly. I didn't hate Titanic, but it's nowhere as good as 1900 in my opinion.

[–] 9 years ago

[deleted]

[–] McShave07 8 years ago

Wow, this film was panned? I knew it was a relatively unknown film, but really?

After I first saw this about 16 years ago I fell in love with it. Sure it has a few poor moments, but the majority of people I've shown this to love it. No wonder I gave up listening to critics decades ago.

[–] felstein 8 years ago

Most critics are too jaded to appreciate a delicate fable like Legend of 1900. They seem to have a particular problem with lyricism and sentimentality. I loved Lo1900, but it is the kind of work you have to give yourself over to.

[–] ceepak 8 years ago

That is probably the best answer I have come across felstein. Nailed it.

[–] catbookss 8 years ago

I agree with the other poster. Excellent answer. I think you're right: most critics do have a problem with sentimentality and lyricism.

[–] 8 years ago

[deleted]

[–] marineproductions1 8 years ago

Because he could totally get off that damn ship! Why wouldn't he???? doesn't make sense!

[–] CalibMcBolts 7 years ago

The entire ending is just about that!! Did you not watch the *beep* movie?
The entire beautiful monologue at the end of 1900 perfectly explains it...

Favorite films of all time list
http://www.imdb.com/list/ls031708001

[–] Towelie_Towel (1700) 2 years ago

I thought the monologue at the end was very frustrating.

[–] TheArgentinian (6423) 7 months ago

Critics saw right through it. People love this kind of sentimental films.

And Titanic is less popular? In what country? Gen Z loves Titanic.

"it hasn't aged well, it's a cliche melodrama". you are literally describing this POS