michelegalli

A rare gem penalized by distribution in the Seventies but rightly praised by most critics today. Bellocchio gives a very personal rendition of Cechov' s drama and thanks to Agosti's editing and great cast performances reaches outstanding results. Laura Betti's character is different fron the original one but so powerful to steal the scene. Remo Girone is perfect in his role and pierces the screen. Pamela Villoresi, Giulio Brogi and the rest of the cast are very good too. Also, I have to praise the choice of locations, Casale sul Sile near Treviso, a very lucky invention that added to the film a unique atmosphere, like Nicola Piovani's musical score. Not just a meditation about art, as you may read sometimes, but on human condition, love and meaning of life.

A routine war movie well acted and directed but not particularly interesting nor spectacular, after all predictable and too rhetorical. A tribute to the soldiers and their families, certainly, but if you are not among them you may choose to watch something else. I read other reviews comparing this movie to "Saving Private Ryan"... it was misleading in my opinion. This movie reminds me more Black Hawk Down but it is far less spectacular and gripping. Battles scenes are quite realistic but the whole story is built around a small episode after all (big enough for those who took part in it, but what about the others?). If you like war movies give it a try but don't expect too much or you will end disappointed.