Every once in a while you see a film that resonates so strongly with you that it almost feels like it has been written about your own life.
The father and sons dynamic of The Eight Mountains had so many parallels to my life it was uncanny. It’s a beautifully told story that doesn’t hold back on the triumphs and tragedies.
Pietro (played at various ages by Luca Marinelli, Lupo Barbiero and Andrea Palma) and Bruno (Alessandro Borghi, Cristiano Sassella and Francesco Palombelli) are childhood friends. Pietro comes from the city and Bruno the country and they both have a lot to learn from each other. Their personal fortunes are also in constant flux.
This ongoing change in life conditions between the two gives the film a completely believable narrative. The ebb and flow leads to some very emotional moments. From its leisurely beginning, the events on display will resonate with almost all audience members. Italian or not these are universal themes that are on display.
It’s safe to say I adored this work of art. It’s not perfect, it’s a bit too long and slow to get going but those are minor quibbles. It is so rich with humanity and so beautiful to look at, it should be included in anybody’s watch list of films not to miss.
Rob Hudson
www.palacefilms.com.au/
