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Toni

Toni (1999)

Jan 20, 1999 1h 30m Crime Drama Romance

Toni is a mob movie combined with an urban love story and reflections about one's roots. The protagonist, Toni, is a young man from a small village in the south of Italy who arrives at the station Gare de Lyon in Paris. He never questions the education he receives from his mob family or the rules to which he is always chained. He contacts a man called "The Old Man," a strange character discarded by the family who is of help from time to time. This man is supposed to communicate to Toni all necessary information for him to accomplish his mission. Toni plans to execute it in perfect calm. But things do not go according to plan. He meets Marie, a vulnerable journalist whose best friend has just committed suicide. Two doomed characters enter a mysterious relationship.

Directed by Philomène Esposito

Cast

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Alessandro Gassmann
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Alessandro Gassmann

as Toni

Béatrice Dalle
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Béatrice Dalle

as Marie

Raf Vallone
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Raf Vallone

as The Old Man

Venantino Venantini
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Venantino Venantini

as Minelli

Elena Varzi
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Elena Varzi

as Sylvana

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Martin Esposito

as L'ange gardien

Roland Marchisio
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Roland Marchisio

as Pippo

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Bruno Delahaye

as Jacques

Salvatore Ingoglia
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Salvatore Ingoglia

as L'homme de main de Minelli

Crew

Director
  • Philomène Esposito
Writer
  • Philomène Esposito
  • Patrick Laurent
Producer
  • Pier Francesco Aiello
  • Olivier Granier

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Toni 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 Philomène Esposito 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 Toni took approximately 9 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2456 individual shots.
  • The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
  • The musical score contains over 45 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1999, when this film was released:
  • Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
  • 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: January 20, 1999
  • Runtime: 1h 30m

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