'The Hand of God' Review: Award-winning Italian family drama sure to win hearts
'The Hand of God' is an Italian drama film, worked on completely by Paolo Sorrentino himself. The movie stars Filippo Scotti in the lead, with Toni Servillo, Teresa Saponangelo, Marlon Joubert, Luisa Ranieri, Renato Carpentieri, Massimiliano Gallo, Betti Pedrazzi, Biagio Manna and Ciro Capano rounding up the cast.
'The Hand of God' competed at the 78th Venice International Film Festival, and ended up winning the Grand Jury Prize; Filippo Scotti was the recipient of the Marcello Mastroianni Award. The film was also selected at the 94th Academy Awards, under the category of "Best International Feature Film".
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In the film, director Sorrentino actually adapts events and instances from his life itself. The film, set in Naples during the 80s, follows a highly introverted Fabietto Schiesi (played by Filippo Scotti) as he tries to figure out his identity and who he really is in regard to his overly affectionate Italian family. Of course, it's a lot for a 17-year-old to think about when his aunt, Patrizia (played by Luisa Ranieri), decides to sunbathe nude amidst the entire family on a weekend getaway!
You might want to keep an open mind when it comes to 'The Hand of God', since the narrative is seemingly allowed to take its course and run carefree, although the film's characters and instances should be relatable on some levels.
One of the film's highlights definitely has to be the scene in which Fabietto has a deep and rather philosophical conversation with a filmmaker in the movie, Antonio Capuano. It's ironic that Fabio had mentioned to his mother that he'd like to study Philosophy after high school. Having said that, Capuano shares his beliefs about abandonment, grief, and what really stands out for someone who wants to make it big in the cinema world.
For the most part, all of the family members in Fabietto's immediate family share a warm relationship. In a rather dark scene when his mother, Maria Schisa (played by Teresa Saponangelo), has an emotional meltdown, Fabietto slowly but rapidly starts shivering, which turns into an anxiety attack. At this point, his brother talks him through and calms him down.
There is some light-hearted humor portrayed in scenes with the entire family, where the grandmother of the family is humored for only using foul language, and even over Fabio's new uncle being a 70-year-old fiance to his aunt. All his relatives, although sweet at heart, seem like they have nothing better to do other than sit together and judge people based on their appearances and lifestyle. A tad materialistic perhaps, but like they say, you can't choose your family.
Another aspect that is sure to etch in your mind is the relationship between Fabio's parents, Saverio and Maria. The two have come a long way since they first met. Even still, the couple has an adorable lovey-dovey thing they do where one of them whistles a particular tune, and the other follows suit! In time, we are introduced to the fact that Saverio has an affair that's lasted a long time but through it all, the couple wade through thick waters as one unit; truly remarkable. Their impact on their son's life is substantial; making him yearn for love as special and meaningful as his parents'.
Another aspect that clearly stands out is the way women are depicted in the movie. Fabietto's aunt, Patrizia, is seen as someone who needs psychiatric help, whereas his dismissive neighbor, Baroness Focale (played by Betty Pedrazzi), showcases maternal instincts. Their appealing open sexuality and naturally giving instincts are from where Fabietto’s curiosity stems. His strong sense of solitude and longing as a mere 17-year-old is portrayed beautifully.
Watch 'The Hand of God' on Netflix now!