'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' Review: Michela De Rossi and Matilda Lutz shine in Netflix's Italian period drama
APULIA, ITALY: 'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' aka 'Briganti' is streaming on Netflix from Tuesday, April 23. This period drama follows the journey of a wealthy woman who decides to let go of her wealthy yet sorrowful life to lead a group of brigands in post-unification Italy.
'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' embodies all the hallmarks of a compelling period drama. The creators transport you into a 19th-century setting, immersing you in the world of brigandage where you feel right at home.
At the same time, they never lose sight of the story they are telling and the protagonist's journey feels deeply personal.. Here's our detailed review of the series.
Brilliant writing is the backbone of 'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' aka 'Briganti'
What works best for the series is its writing, especially the screenplay and storytelling. Filomena's (Michela De Rossi) transformation from a woman dutifully married to a wealthy and abusive Don to a rugged, rustic warrior is executed flawlessly.
The best part of her journey is her anagnorisis, where she delves into the depths of her sorrowful life and uncovers her true essence. The scene where she kills her husband is the perfect launchpad for a journey that will have its peaks and valleys till it reaches an appropriate end.
This being a period series, the creators have done very well to maintain the balance between the authenticity of the world that has been portrayed while using the modern-day language of communication.
A special mention must be made of the show's production design. While the scale may not rival that of contemporary period dramas, the creators have intelligently managed the overall look and feel of the show.
The production design is ably complemented by very accomplished cinematography. Benjamin Maier's use of depth of field enhances the locales and enhances the drama.
The only aspect that perhaps lacked imagination was the costume and art direction. In several scenes, the mise en scène felt somewhat underwhelming and failed to complement the premise or performances adequately. The costumes offered little that we hadn't seen before.
Michela De Rossi and Matilda Lutz are powerhouse performers in 'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' aka 'Briganti'
Michela De Rossi as Filomena is a revelation in this series. With a demanding role, she fearlessly takes on every aspect of her character.
Her performance requires her to exaggerate and underplay in different scenarios, and she excels at both with remarkable finesse.
She is very well complemented by Matilda Lutz, who portrays Michelina De Cesare. Both Matilda and Michela essentially carry the show on their backs. Gianmarco Vettori and Ivana Lotito shine brilliantly in their roles as Marchetta and Ciccilla.
Direction by Antonio Le Fosse and his team stands out in 'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' aka 'Briganti'.
Period dramas are a staple on streaming platforms, and making one stand out in today's day and age requires a great deal of skill and imagination.
Director Antonia Le Fosse and his team known as GRAMS commit to the world they know very well, creating an intrinsically different atmosphere that sets the series apart.
From the music to the pacing and editing, every decision taken by the makers seems to enhance the overall experience of the series.
From building the paraphernalia to making the editing decisions, the series remains loyal to its roots and serves as an excellent introduction to the brigandage in Southern Italy to anyone unversed.
Overall, the series serves as a great reminder of how different parts of the world have great stories from their history waiting to be told and when they are told well, it always makes for a compelling watch.
'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' aka 'Briganti' Trailer
'Brigands: The Quest for Gold' aka 'Briganti' starts streaming on April 23, 2024, on Netflix.