Cast
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Francesco Benigno
as Natale Sperandeo
Alessandra Di Sanzo
as Mario 'Mery' Libassi
Roberto Mariano
as Antonio Patanè
Maurizio Prollo
as Claudio Catalano
Alfredo Li Bassi
as Carmelo Vella
Salvatore Termini
as Giovanni 'King Kong' Termini
Filippo Genzardi
as Matteo Mondello
Vincenza Attardo
as Vita
Carlo Berretta
as Salvatore 'Salvo' Sperandeo
Giuseppe Pirico
as Marcello
Giuseppe Lucania
as Santino
Alessandro Calamia
as Tommaso
Alessandra Costanzo
as Social Worker
Luigi Maria Burruano
as Franco D'Annino
Guia Jelo
as Prostitute
Crew
Director
- Marco Risi
Producer
- Claudio Bonivento
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Boys on the Outside 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 Risi 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 1990, 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 Boys on the Outside took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 110 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 156 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 80 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Boys on the Outside shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike American Beauty, which focuses more on action than character development, Boys on the Outside subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like 15 Years and The Big Black Sow explore similar territory, Boys on the Outside 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: September 14, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 50m
