Cast
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James Russo
as Vittorio De Simone
Eleonora Brigliadori
as Bianca Ravelli
Giuliana Calandra
as Bianca's Mother
Anna Bonaiuto
as The Judge
Karen Moore
as Nora
Lidia Broccolino
as Bianca's Friend
Riccardo Salvino
as Prof. Achille Biondelli
Delia D'Alberti
as Biondelli's Wife
Claire Hardwick
as Vittorio's Mistress
Valentino Zeichen
as Self (as Mario Zeichen)
Paolo Pigozzi
as
Francesco Scali
as Anchorman
Emidio La Vella
as The Doctor
Marisa Serafina
as
Ivano Marescotti
as Friend of Bianca's Mother
Crew
Director
- Giuliana Gamba
Producer
- Giovanni Bertolucci
- Galliano Juso
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Belt 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 Giuliana Gamba 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 1989, 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 Belt took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 1202 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Belt shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Oppressed Majority, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Belt subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like O'er the Land and The Death of Empedocles explore similar territory, The Belt stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 22, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 33m
