Close-up footage of artisans, fine artists, musicians, fishermen, bakers, Alps herders, wine makers, and more. An introduction of the beautiful arts relationship with the culture of Italy, done with excellent background music. Classic, folk, instrumental and vocal is all provided demonstrating while viewing the rich fine arts culture of the country sometimes known only for spaghetti and pizza. The producers also filmed the "Visions of..." series of helicopter HD documentaries of many European countries. This DVD has some similar air footage, but more of wonderful ground footage, and very, very up-close shots of details like restoration of masterpieces, wood carvers tools in the act of cutting, and faces of the Italian people. A more personal look at Italy culture.
A second hour-long episode of this public television series has filmed art and history, and often architecture which combines both. We get to see it with the educational narration about the culture and living among such a splendid country. Yet the Italian people balance technology and contemporary change with their unique past. You will see accordions, Murano glass, alabaster, cut glass, oral jewelry and more, up close, being created. And traditional cuisine holds its own against fast food attempts. Pure foods+local wines+talk = the unchangeable Italian dining culture.
The last episode offers the Roman roads to today's Autostrada demonstrating a modern Italy striving to continue the rich heritage left by past inventors and creators. Scenes of today entice viewers to become tourists. An amazing 21st century look at Italian culture. A total of 3 episodes, each about one hour.
BONUS
Closed Captioning available, helpful to see the spelling of names.
A 15 minute segment showing "Visions of Italy" an aerial helicopter footage taken from an earlier released DVD. It has background music but no narration, but does have locations scripted overlaying the film footage. A continual motion flying from/to cities, country, Alps to coasts, and it's worth taking a look at the whole travel documentary series: "Visions of Europe" (see my reviews). If you really like Italy educational documentary, I'd also recommend "Brian Sewell's Grand Tour of Italy".
This DVD is highly recommended for travel documentary fans, Italian/Americans, those studying the Italian country or people, and anyone considering an Italian visit. A good library choice, schools or public.
