Rome was the star of ‘The Great Beauty‘. Rome’s wealthy were just actors on the stage and the only ones for whom I cared even a little were Jep (pictured), the aging playboy, and his tiny editor. The giraffe and the flamingos were surprising and far more so for the backdrop of the ancient city. Nudity and drugs, yes, glamour, certainly and beautiful tailoring in Jep’s jackets. But not a story with a crisis and resolution to hold my attention and affection for over two hours, despite the spectacle.