‘Miss Italia Mustn’t Die’ Netflix Review - A Pageant’s Last Stand

Ah, beauty pageants—the glittering tiaras, the sequined gowns, the inevitable existential crises. 'Miss Italia Mustn't Die' thrusts us into the backstage chaos of Italy's most iconic pageant, led by the indomitable Patrizia Mirigliani. If you've ever wondered what happens when tradition collides headfirst with modernity, this documentary serves up a front-row seat, popcorn not included.

Patrizia Mirigliani, the pageant's director and our tour guide through this labyrinth of hairspray and high heels, is nothing short of a force of nature. With a resolve that could put a Roman gladiator to shame, she confronts scandals that would make even the most seasoned PR professional break into a sweat. From contestants with dubious pasts to judges with questionable motives, Patrizia navigates these choppy waters with a blend of stern authority and a wink of humor. It's as if she's saying, "Yes, the ship is sinking, but have you seen how fabulous my life jacket looks?"

The documentary doesn't shy away from the elephant in the dressing room: the shifting perceptions of beauty in the 21st century. As society moves towards inclusivity and authenticity, the very foundation of Miss Italia seems as outdated as a dial-up internet connection. Patrizia faces this challenge head-on, attempting to modernize the pageant without alienating its traditional audience. It's a tightrope walk in stilettos, and watching her balance is both inspiring and, at times, cringe-inducing.

Directors Pietro Daviddi and David Gallerano deserve a standing ovation for their unflinching portrayal of this tumultuous journey. Their cameras capture candid moments that oscillate between the absurd and the profound. One minute, we're witnessing a heated debate over the appropriateness of a contestant's tattoo; the next, we're plunged into a heartfelt discussion about body positivity. The directors manage to maintain a tone that's both respectful and delightfully irreverent, much like a well-timed wink during a solemn ceremony.

However, the documentary isn't without its missteps. At 98 minutes, it occasionally feels like a marathon in high heels. Certain segments, particularly those delving into the minutiae of pageant logistics, could have benefited from a trim. While it's mildly interesting to know the exact thread count of the sashes, it doesn't exactly keep the adrenaline pumping. Additionally, the film sometimes veers into melodrama, with background scores that seem better suited for a telenovela than a documentary. One half expects a dramatic zoom-in accompanied by a thunderclap every time a minor crisis unfolds.

Despite these hiccups, 'Miss Italia Mustn't Die' succeeds in peeling back the layers of an institution many have dismissed as superficial. It challenges viewers to reconsider their preconceptions about beauty pageants and the individuals who pour their hearts into them. Patrizia emerges not just as a guardian of tradition but as a woman grappling with the complexities of progress. Her determination to keep the pageant relevant is both commendable and, at times, quixotic. It's like watching someone earnestly try to fit a square peg into a round hole, all while maintaining perfect poise.

The supporting cast of contestants adds depth and diversity to the narrative. These young women, each with their own dreams and insecurities, provide a microcosm of contemporary Italian society. Their interactions range from heartwarming camaraderie to cutthroat competition, offering a reminder that beneath the makeup and smiles are real people with real stories. It's a refreshing departure from the often one-dimensional portrayal of pageant participants in mainstream media.

In conclusion, 'Miss Italia Mustn't Die' is a rollercoaster of glitz, grit, and giggles. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at a world that's both glamorous and grueling, held together by a woman who refuses to let her legacy fade into obscurity. While it occasionally stumbles in pacing and tone, the documentary's heart—and humor—shine through. Whether you're a pageant aficionado or a skeptic, this film provides a compelling, and at times comically chaotic, glimpse into the battle to keep Miss Italia alive and kicking. So, don your finest evening wear, grab a glass of Prosecco, and prepare to be entertained. After all, in the world of beauty pageants, the show must go on—even if it teeters on six-inch heels.

Final Score- [6.5/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times