La scomparsa di Patò

There is nothing overly special about this Italian 1 hour and 30 minute (IMDB lists it as a 35 minute short, but it was on TV for 1 hour, 30 minutes, without commercials) which comes with English sub-titles. It is a common "who-dunnit" comedy-drama that is more entertaining than most and keeps the viewer wondering what is happening and who is responsible. As typical, everything comes together towards the end. There is light humor and especially good acting. I watched the TV version, so I cannot tell if there is any offensive material. The scenery is beautiful and the sets are colorful. The last scene with the suspect is my favorite when he fixes his gaze (I won't tell you what he looks at, but it is a hoot).

Any of us who have ever watched Commissario Montalbano will have been enchanted by the sublime craft of author Andrea Camilleri, weaving plots which engage us totally, played out by an excellent cast, portraying characters whom we have come to know and love. And that is what led us to take a look at 'La Scomparsa di Patò', which most certainly did not disappoint.

This was a totally engaging period mystery, with a plot which took its various twists and turns, made into a 'reality' for the viewer by great old-fashioned character acting, something so sadly vanishing, and vanishing far more completely than Patò ever did.

The screenplay and direction were also magnificent, with the central characters becoming 'peeping toms', sneaking in as extras at the acting out of their interpretation of events. It was witty and clever, showing that a drama does not need 1001 guns and explosions going off to make top-class viewing.

It also plays out the rivalry between the Polizia and Carabinieri, something which even my Italian friends struggle to comprehend and explain, and which does occasionally feature in 'Montalbano'.

Another link with that series is the late Giacinto Ferro playing 'Prefetto Tirirò', a very similar role to 'Questore Bonetti Alderighi', whom he played in twelve episodes of Montalbano.

An absolute joy to watch. 10/10.