Lavoreremo da Grandi: Recensione del Film di Antonio Albanese sulla Generazione Sconfitta

Antonio Albanese’s Lavoreremo da grandi is described as an illuminating film, a human parabola that reflects a “defeated generation.” The film, noted for its comedic elements, is characterized by a search for the absurd within a provincial setting, reminiscent of the classic Italian comedy tradition.

A Comedic Exploration of a “Defeated” Generation

The film centers around four characters – Umberto, a failed musician; his son Toni, recently released from prison; Beppe, an idraulico (plumber) with an overbearing mother; and Gigi, a perpetually intoxicated man who inherited wealth from an aunt. Albanese, along with co-writer Piero Guerrera, sets the story in the beautiful lakeside province of Orta, a location described as a place “where nothing happens.” The actors portraying these characters – Antonio Albanese, Niccolò Ferrero, Giuseppe Battiston, and Nicola Rignanese – deliver performances described as sincere and captivating.

A “Mad” and Unpredictable Narrative

Lavoreremo da grandi is characterized as “mad” and “completely mad,” driven by a sense of “fatality” and unfolding in an unexpected, naive vision. The film’s comedic elements are described as “dilating” into an explosion of originality. The film’s scenography, by Marco Belluzzi and Anna Ranci Ortigosa, contributes to its theatrical feel, evoking comparisons to Off-Broadway productions rooted in Italian sensibilities.

Themes of Failure and Indolence

The film, according to Albanese, explores the theme of failure, humanizing and examining lives lived without full comprehension. It honors indolence, sweetness, and laziness, even before action. The film is positioned as a continuation of Albanese’s previous work, Cento domeniche, and is closely aligned with Un uomo d’acqua dolce. The narrative’s “madness” draws parallels to the works of Luis Buñuel and the Coen brothers.

The characters in Lavoreremo da grandi, described as playing a “game,” evade responsibility while circling around a “guilt” that serves as both pretext and context. Albanese, with “courage and passion,” embarks on a comedic interlude, aiming for a bittersweet and authentic form of entertainment, underscored by the lyrics of Marracash: “Avevamo solamente il sogno di una vita diversa, tanto noi la pace l’abbiamo già persa” (We only had the dream of a different life, so we have already lost peace).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the central theme of Lavoreremo da grandi?

The film explores the lives of a “defeated generation” and examines themes of failure, indolence, and the search for meaning in a provincial setting.

Who are the main characters in the film?

The main characters are Umberto, a failed musician; Toni, his son recently out of prison; Beppe, a plumber; and Gigi, a wealthy, perpetually intoxicated man.

How is the film described in terms of its comedic style?

The film is described as “mad,” “completely mad,” and characterized by an explosion of absurd and original comedy.

Does the film’s exploration of characters grappling with life’s disappointments resonate with your own experiences or observations?