Michael Caine’s best work in years and a strong supporting cast isn’t quite enough to lift the evocative, elegant yet slight Youth beyond the (admittedly absorbing) curio it is.

If nothing else, the world of Youth is a charming place to spend two hours – the accommodating cast and image after image of glorious mountainous scenery see to that – but the emotional depth, often accused of lacking in Sorrentino’s work, sadly lives up to that reputation for much of this story.

Sorrentino’s ear for a good tune remains strong, however, as the brilliantly-scored highs make up for the lulls in between.

Immersive, lush and tender, yet oddly lacking in emotional power despite the affecting performances, Youth is a frustrating and joyous film in equal measure.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Michael Caine, Harvey Keitel, Rachel Weisz, Paul Dano, Jane Fonda

DIRECTOR: Paolo Sorrentino

WRITER: Paolo Sorrentino

SYNOPSIS: A retired renowned composer is on a retreat in the Swiss Alps with his best friend and daughter when he receives an invitation from the Queen.