Battiato Film: Vita e Somiglianza Attore

A new film, Il lungo viaggio (The Long Journey), directed by Renato De Maria, explores the life of the iconic Italian singer-songwriter Franco Battiato. The film traces Battiato’s journey from his childhood through to 1996, the year of his acclaimed album La cura, and concludes near the time of his death in 2021 at his home in Milo, Sicily.

A Journey of Self-Discovery

De Maria describes the film as a portrayal of Battiato’s “inner journey” – from Sicily to Milan and back again. Actor Dario Aita embodies Battiato, with the director noting a striking resemblance in appearance and mannerisms. The film delves into Battiato’s early experimentation with music, facing resistance from record executives who preferred conventional songs over his philosophical explorations.

The Enigma of Battiato

According to De Maria, Battiato was a complex figure: “an idealist mystic, an astronaut in the space of the soul, an anarchist who sought his own path.” He began this self-exploration early, writing a childhood essay titled “Who am I?” The film draws on interviews, books, and music videos to depict his evolution as an artist.

Did You Know? Franco Battiato had already released 15 albums when Pippo Baudo interviewed him on television, yet Baudo treated him as an emerging artist.

The film highlights Battiato’s encounters with figures like Giusto Pio and Ballista, while omitting others, such as Manlio Sgalambro and protest songs. Dialogue is directly inspired by Battiato’s own words, and the film is infused with his music. Battiato’s interests spanned a vast range, from classical composers like Telemann and Brahms to synthesizers and the mystical traditions of the dervishes.

Family and Legacy

The film also explores Battiato’s family life, portraying his distant father and his central, influential mother, played by Simona Malato. The project originated with producer Francesca Chiappetta, a long-time friend of Battiato, and later involved Cristina Battiato, the singer’s niece and universal heir, daughter of his brother Michele.

Expert Insight: The film’s focus on Battiato’s internal journey and artistic evolution suggests an attempt to capture the essence of a profoundly unconventional figure, rather than a strictly biographical account. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of his philosophical and spiritual interests.

The film intentionally avoids showing the “real” Battiato, instead presenting Dario Aita as his cinematic representation. During television interviews with Mario Luzzatto Fegiz, the actor’s face is interpolated with archival footage. Battiato himself valued solitude, famously stating, “My friends are the trees, the plants, the clouds and the roses.” His rose garden in Milo remains carefully preserved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What period of Battiato’s life does the film cover?

The film focuses on Battiato’s life from his elementary school years up to 1996, the year he released La cura, and ends near the time of his death in 2021.

Who plays Franco Battiato in the film?

Dario Aita portrays Franco Battiato, chosen for his striking resemblance to the singer in terms of appearance and mannerisms.

What was Battiato’s view of solitude?

Franco Battiato considered solitude a fundamental human condition, stating that his friends were “the trees, the plants, the clouds and the roses.”

Given Battiato’s wide-ranging interests and unconventional approach to music, how do you think his legacy will continue to influence artists today?