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The Nanny

The Nanny (1999)

May 21, 1999 1h 46m Drama

Rome, early 20th century: a wealthy psychiatrist, who runs an asylum for women and lacks imagination in his practice, must find a wet nurse for his infant when his wife panics after childbirth. He brings a peasant, Annette, to Rome, forcing her to leave her own baby behind. To the consternation and increasing anger of the wife, the nanny immediately bonds with the couple's infant son - Annette's a natural. Against a backdrop of leftist demonstrations, Annette, who's lover is a teacher jailed for subversion, asks the doctor to teach her to read and write. Her nature and curiosity, the doctor's bland ideas, he and his wife's problems, and the two infants bring the story to a head.

Directed by Marco Bellocchio

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Marco Bellocchio
Writer
  • Luigi Pirandello
Producer
  • Marco Bellocchio

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Nanny examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Marco Bellocchio brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1999, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Nanny took approximately 29 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 163 minutes long.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
  • The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.

Historical Context

  • In 1999, when this film was released:
  • The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
  • Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: May 21, 1999
  • Runtime: 1h 46m

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