Review of The Conformist (1971) by Elvira B — 03 May 2008

I fixed this review because the previous one didn't really say anything elightening. First, I've though it over and concluded that this might be one of the best films I've ever seen, on many levels. The story is extremely ambiguous, but I'll take a shot at explaining: Marcello is a hired assassin, working for the Fascist regime. All his life he has struggled with the memories of his childhood, memories that set him apart from the others, that make him different. In a desperate attempt to become accepted by society, to become like all the others, he marries the lovely but mediocre, plain, and predictable woman played by Stefania Sandrelli. But then something very bad happens: he is assigned a job during his honeymoon in Paris that will make him come face to face with his principles, his desires, and whether his need to "fit in" can outweight all else.

The cinematography/art direction is incredible. I could not take my eyes off the screen. I even watched the Art Director's commentary, because I was so impressed by this movie's beauty. The performances are very good too, especially Jean Louis Trintignant, a morally wounded soldier somehow marching out of time. He is haunting and complex as Marcello. It is truly one of the most memorable performances I have ever seen on film. Really a must-see of Italian cinema, possibly one of Bertollucci's best. Strikes the perfect balance between substance and style.