Cast
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Carlo Verdone
as Piero Ruffolo
Alessandro Benvenuti
as Lino Santolamazza
Angelo Bernabucci
as Walter Finocchiaro
Nancy Brilli
as Federica Polidori
Giusi Cataldo
as Margherita Serafini
Athina Cenci
as Maria Rita Amoroso
Maurizio Ferrini
as Armando Lepore
Isa Gallinelli
as Jolanda Scarpellini
Massimo Ghini
as Mauro Valenzani
Eleonora Giorgi
as Valeria Donati
Natasha Hovey
as Cristina Romagnoli
Luisa Maneri
as Gloria Montanari
Piero Natoli
as Luca Guglielmi
Luigi Petrucci
as Ottavio Postiglione
Fabio Traversa
as Pier Maria Fabris
Crew
Director
- Carlo Verdone
Producer
- Vittorio Cecchi Gori
- Mario Cecchi Gori
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Compagni di scuola represents a fascinating example of Comedy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Carlo Verdone 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1988, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Compagni di scuola took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 118 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 157 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 1988, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- 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 Compagni di scuola shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Shaun of the Dead, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Compagni di scuola subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Papel and Grave Decisions explore similar territory, Compagni di scuola stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: December 21, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 58m
