Ironic
Italians
With
a curious title, this Italian production is the story of two brothers
living in the tumultuous times of the 60's and 70's in the city
of Latina (actually built by Mussolini in his heyday). At this
time in Italy there’s considerable political unrest. Seemingly
the Fascists still hope to regain power, while there is a strong
Communist presence. These two factions are at each other's throat.
As it transpires the brothers split, one embracing Fascism, and
one Communism.
Accio (Elio Germano), a rebellious and impulsive
lad, signs up to the local Fascist group with the encouragement
of linen stall-holder Mario Nastri (Luca Zingaretti) (who rather
resembles Il Duce himself). Elder brother Manrico (Riccardo Scarmarcio)
the favourite of his family, goes in the opposite direction, becoming
a Communist activist at a local factory.
The brothers' rivalry begins, fueled as Accio develops
more than a passing interest in Manrico’s girl Francesca
(Diane Fleri). Accio, while inspired by the Fascist dogma, equally
enjoys the comradeship and fist fights. It suits his rebel personality.
Later he is to change his allegiance dramatically.
Accio’s fascination for Francesca is abandoned
for a time as he begins a doomed relationship with Mario’s
discontented wife Bella (Anna Bonaiuto), which leads to considerable
trouble for both brothers. Manrico moves into terrorism and is
on the run from the authorities. The ending is unexpected and
cleverly reflects the beginning.
The
film has some notable scenes, including the Fascists invading
a concert featuring a Communist version of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony
with ridiculous rewording of the choral movement.
The ever moving hand-held camera can be annoying.
While it lends some nervous excitement to the proceedings, one
could have wished a tripod for the cameraman at times. But certainly
the atmosphere of the period in Italy is well captured.
Director Daniele Luchetti (Ginger and Cinnamon) also worked on
the script with Sandro Petraglia and Stephano Rulli, who previously
wrote The Best of Youth. Be aware though, Luchetti directs at
a leisurely pace and you may feel the film outruns its welcome.
The performances of both Elio Germano (N :Napoleon
and Me) as Accio and Riccardo Scamarcio (Go Go Tales) as Marico
are rock solid, as they give the needed depth to their characters.
Also impressive as support are Angela Finocchiaro as the long
suffering mother in a suitably fiery reading, while Luca Zingaretti,
Diane Fleri, and Anna Bonaiuto are all noteworthy.
Italians, especially those living in Italy during
the unrest of the 1960's, will appreciate the finer points of
the local politics, but for most of us it won’t have as
much relevance. Though it’s long in the telling, there’s
no doubt of the sincerity of the production and the quality of
the performances.
John Bale
