Organnall Too much about the plot just didn't add up, the writing was bad, some of the scenes were cringey and awkward,

Huievest Instead, you get a movie that's enjoyable enough, but leaves you feeling like it could have been much, much more.

StyleSk8r At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

Matylda Swan It is a whirlwind of delight --- attractive actors, stunning couture, spectacular sets and outrageous parties.

secondtake Viva la Liberta (2013)Maybe I'm programmed to like this kind of scenario: a boring politician is replaced with someone who is idealistic and fun, and who tells it like it is. The American version of this is "Dave" which is a hoot. Now we have an Italian version, which is more subtle and poetic. Definitely worth seeing.The genius here on screen is the actor Toni Servillo who plays both men, the senator and the slightly wacky twin brother who takes his place. It all happens so naturally, with one small twist after another. There are past loves and political foes that factor into both lives equally, to the point that you might not be sure who is who, and if there are in fact two people after all.But then, that's the magic of how this comedy is made. It is full of laughs, but it's oddly brilliant and philosophical, too. It can be appreciated on a million levels, so just let it seep into your pores.

Chunyi Hsu Previous reviewers mentioned how this movie reflects the politics of Italy. I would say this movie is reflective of not only political reality in Italy, but many other countries where bipartisan politics has turned governments into corrupted systems that serve only the political and corporate elites of the society at the expense of ordinary citizens, irrespective of which party is in power. Although the storyline evolves around a politician, politics is surely not the centre stage of the film. It is about catastrophe at national, organisational and personal levels, and how passion, courage and art emerge as saviours that lead the protagonist through the crisis. The message is beautifully delivered, and delivered at an opportune time, where people in many parts of the world have been very much exhausted and frustrated by the prolonged political and economic crisis.The acting of all the actresses and actors are very remarkable and enjoyable indeed; but that of the leading actor is particularly fascinating and impressive. You will not be disappointed!

g-rafaschieri I agree great movie ... very real and funny ... Mastandrea - Servillo surprising as the film acting.It has to compete for an Oscar in 2014. Beautiful script WITH directed ,actors in a state of grace, cult dialog,very smart and funny. Fantastic performances Toni Servillo and Valerio Mastandrea .An Italy that unfortunately is reflected in the crisis of the protagonist,funny scenes from the anthology .I hope that the film will be appreciated abroad and have the awards ,really nice.Keep an eye on the final, VERY BEAUTIFUL . The film is adapted from the novel "THE EMPTY THRONE"

Iwould In this movie there are certain minor nuances that you won't probably notice unless you are a well-read and informed Italian citizen. Forget about it: even if you don't have total knowledge of the scenario depicted, this won't stop you from enjoying this funny, surprising story (and furthermore, for all of us living outside the USA, it is not the same with every single baseball or football flick?).The sky is the ceiling for the acting abilities of Mr. Toni Servillo, who plays the main role. The man is so good, it looks like he could be able to play all the roles in "War and Peace" by himself at the same time: and with good makeups and costumes, I bet he could. Most of the movie is constantly played around the closeups of his face: and it's a good idea, as this guy is able to switch personality just turning his head, or blinking his eyes. Even the other actors and actresses of the cast are very good, with a special mention for Valerio Mastandrea, whose character is the dazed and confused witness of the disaster he creates. The silent gazes he throws around while his world of relations is crumbling down reminded me more than one time the classic comedy of the great Totò.So, I strongly suggest to go watch this movie to enjoy those great acting performances - no need to know anything about Italian politics: even because, to be honest, given the outcome of the 2013 elections, nobody here can tell for sure anymore where's the difference between reality and fantasy.