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Placido Rizzotto

Placido Rizzotto (2000)

Oct 20, 2000 1h 50m Drama History

As a child, Sicilian Placido Rizzotto saw his father imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit, and as a young man he fought in World War II, first as a soldier and then as an anti-fascist partisan. These events have left Placido with little taste for petty tyranny and with a desire to promote social justice. Upon his return home, he becomes increasingly aware that the Mafia has taken hold of his village, witnessing angry and frustrated as gangsters control local politics and take whatever they want from the people. Placido helps to form a trade union as a challenge to the Mafia's authority, and attempts to organize the villagers into a collective to grow crops in the fields taken by the Mafia.

Directed by Pasquale Scimeca

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Pasquale Scimeca
Writer
  • Pasquale Scimeca

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Placido Rizzotto 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 Pasquale Scimeca 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 2000, 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 Placido Rizzotto took approximately 36 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 131 minutes long.
  • The costume department created over 392 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 79 unique compositions.
  • The film contains approximately 2486 individual shots.

Historical Context

  • In 2000, when this film is released:
  • The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
  • Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

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

Unlike The Funeral, which focuses more on action than character development, Placido Rizzotto offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like The Damned United and Molokai: The Story of Father Damien explore similar territory, Placido Rizzotto 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: October 20, 2000
  • Runtime: 1h 50m