Cast
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Carlo Cecchi
as Renato Caccioppoli
Anna Bonaiuto
as Anna
Renato Carpentieri
as Luigi Caccioppoli
Toni Servillo
as Pietro
Antonio Neiwiller
as Don Simplicio
Licia Maglietta
as Emilia
Fulvia Carotenuto
as Lina
Roberto De Francesco
as Leonardo
Andrea Renzi
as Leo
Alessandra D'Elia
as Stella
Annalisa Foà
as Adele
Lucio Amelio
as The Marquis
Vera Lombardi
as Maria Bakunin
Lucio Allocca
as PCI Leader
Toni Bertorelli
as Antonio Alcamo
Crew
Director
- Mario Martone
Producer
- Angelo Curti
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Death of a Neapolitan Mathematician 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 Mario Martone 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 1992, 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 Death of a Neapolitan Mathematician took approximately 32 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 108 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 164 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 288 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 1992, 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 Death of a Neapolitan Mathematician 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 Damned United, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Death of a Neapolitan Mathematician offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Molokai: The Story of Father Damien and The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc explore similar territory, Death of a Neapolitan Mathematician 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: September 8, 1992
- Runtime: 1h 48m
