Lanza's last film is an enjoyable lightweight concoction with some lovely scenery and the star in glorious voice. The story is a bit hard to swallow but since his films were never the bedrock of reality this one is about par for the course.
Although burdened with an overly mushy script, this film still bursts with Mario Lanza's talent and joie de vivre. Fortunately he is allowed to sing some great opera arias as well as more popular songs such as "Pineapple Picker" and "The Bavarian Beer Song.
For the first time.... This movie is all about two big network company in Philippines agrees for the first time to have their big star to film a movie which hopefully to start the unity and peace between network.
For The First Time is surprisingly entertaining and skillfully photographed. Despise it in any way, but that's how formula films go.
For a performer of such stellar talent, Mario Lanza has received quite a lot of criticism. While watching "For the First Time", his final film I am very ready to dismiss such criticism, as his performance both acting and singing in this film is excellent.
This film is something that I would consider a schmaltzy for every moviegoer who continuously support Filipino flicks. As what Boy Abunda said, "This is what we meant for the "Real Showbiz Fame".
Following Castro's takeover years earlier, Cuba attempted to bring its country out of the dark ages somewhat with cultural and literacy programs. This film features one of the cultural programming ideas: Mobile cinema.
All of Mario Lanza's films are worth watching, even his weakest Seven Hills of Rome. For the First Time was his final film before his ultimely death shortly after, and is one of his best along with Serenade(my favourite) and The Great Caruso, The Student Prince is excellent too but because Lanza only provided the singing voice I'm not counting it.
Released two months before his demise, For The First Time proved to be Mario Lanza's last film. While it's not the young Lanza in his prime, booming out Be My Love, it's still a good film to go out on.
