Backdrop preview El Alamein backdrop
El Alamein

El Alamein (2002)

Nov 08, 2002 1h 57m Action Drama

War seen through the eyes of Serra, a university student from Palermo who volunteers in 1942 to fight in Africa. He is assigned to the Pavia Division on the southern line in Egypt. Rommel and the Axis forces are bogged down; it's October, the British prepare an offensive. At first, boredom, heat, hunger, and thirst bedevil the Italians; then the Brits attack, and there's no luck or heroism in death. Finally, it's retreat in confusion. Serra, his sergeant Rizzo, and his lieutenant Fiori take a last walk toward home. It's said that each soldier gets three miracles; when Serra's are used up, what then?

Directed by Enzo Monteleone

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Enzo Monteleone
Writer
  • Enzo Monteleone
Producer
  • Giovanni Stabilini
  • Marco Chimenz
  • Riccardo Tozzi

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, El Alamein examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Enzo Monteleone 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 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of El Alamein took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
  • The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 231 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2002, when this film is released:
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While El Alamein shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike A Girl Called Rosemarie, which focuses more on action than character development, El Alamein offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Garden and In Bed explore similar territory, El Alamein stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: November 8, 2002
  • Runtime: 1h 57m

Similar Movies