Good story, Not enough for a whole film

Excellent, Without a doubt!!

Not sure how, but this is easily one of the best movies all summer. Multiple levels of funny, never takes itself seriously, super colorful, and creative.

Strong acting helps the film overcome an uncertain premise and create characters that hold our attention absolutely.

Bella Martha was one of the best movies of this genre that I have seen in years. The film flows unrestricted, simplistically yet artistically. The cast could not have been better selected nor, in my opinion, could the movie been more beautifully filmed. The scenery in both Germany and Italy fit perfectly into the storyline, creating realistic ambiance. The interaction between Martha (portrayed by Martina Gedeck, who is quite an accomplished actress) and Lina, her niece, is genuine and as heart wrenching as it is heartwarming. The music is also a nice match for this movie - lighthearted and serious at just the right moments. For some fun, watch this movie then afterward watch its American counterpart - No Reservations. You will be amazed at the difference in the quality of the film - acting and photography.

Bella Martha doesn't convince me. Martha, the frustrated top cook, is out of place in this role. As are the unreal clean kitchens, settings and props. No stains, no live, no love. The cooking doesn't make you wanna eat. The cast is so polished they are almost like window dressing dolls. When the little niece is in hospital she wears the make-up of a woman on a night out. Martha's counterpart is an insanely optimistic cliché Italian, who had to be dubbed (which is badly done). Then there is the incredible story of the rebellious niece who loses her mother (Martha's sister) and who is handed over to an totally unknown Italian father as if it were an Ebay-trade. Then there is the pointless appearances of next door neighbor Sam. Of course there is an happy ending after 90 boring minutes, In style with the movie: not convincing at all.

The charms outweigh the clichés in "Mostly Martha (Bella Martha)." Of course it's right away different in that the phrase "German romantic comedy" isn't common and can be applied here.I loved that "Martha" herself is a competent, self-possessed professional and that's what attracts the guy to her. While we first meet her in therapy, her problems are those of work and personal life I could certainly relate to.While this will remind others of food prep movies like "Wedding Banquet," "Eat, Drink, Man, Woman," and "Tortilla Soup" or restaurant movies like "Dinner Rush" and "Big Night," (which all had male chefs), or "Babette's Feast," I have zero interest in cooking so cared only that "Martha" is very good at her job and at managing the restaurant kitchen.The restaurant characters seem like real co-workers, and amazingly the niece is not some adorable child actor but seems like a real kid whose surliness is legit.The Italian sous chef who comes on board brings the sensuality of the Mediterranean --in music (with a generous use of Paolo Conte songs), movement and language much like in the Danish "Italian for Beginners." And of course in romance, which is still delightful even as the clichés start appearing, her happiness is indicated by her loosened hair like Jane Fonda's in "Electric Horseman."But I enjoyed the build-up to their relationship in ever longer, longing glances and their mutual professional respect and concluding compromises.(originally written 9/2/2002)

I don't know how this poignant drama got dubbed a "comedy,' except for the situational humor: this movie has no "gags" and it needs none.Although the movie doesn't account for how Martha got the way she was; so different than her sister, it sure provides us with a delightful account of her evolution! The lighting, camera angles and facial expressions reinforce a very authentic script.The movie flirts a little with cultural clichés (Martha the Teutonic chef vs Mario the effusive Italian who wears his feelings on his sleeve) but never goes over the top. This movie did make me feel good, but I don't feel like i've been manipulated or tricked into it!I'd like to buy the DVD. It's definitely a movie I'll watch again.