Review of Gomorrah (2008) by Bobby B — 26 Jan 2010

Riveting- but not in the sense that your probably thinking. The film (based on Roberto Saviano's book which forced him into Witness Protection after it was published) is a gritty series of disconnected vignettes which bring to life the Neapolitan Mob known as the Camorra. It unfolds at a rather slow pace- but each piece of the film is like a puzzle. By the end, some of them connect, and some do not. This film, like "Syriana," is not meant to be completely grasped- especially on the first viewing. The reason Garone succeeds, in my eyes, is that even after the credits begin- even if your not completely sure of everything you've just seen, you cannot help but feel compelled to see it again.

This is a Masterpiece- and the fact that it was snubbed, even for a nomination by the Academy is appalling.

P.S. - Please wait to see the closing captions before the credits. They are just as powerful (and scary) as the rest of the film.