Cast
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Margherita Buy
as Sister Caterina
Silvio Orlando
as Ernesto
Carolina Freschi
as Teresa
Maria Cristina Minerva
as Esmeralda
Sonia Gessner
as Mother Superior
Alessandro Di Natale
as Gabriele
Riccardo De Torrebruna
as Gianfranco
Stefano Abbati
as Jogger
Fabio Sartor
as Ernesto's friend
Giuliana Lojodice
as Caterina's mother
Marina Massironi
as Marina
Silvano Piccardi
as Bald man at the nursery school
Carlina Torta
as Nurse at the nursery school
Daniela Cristofori
as Nurse at the nursery school
Olivia Manescalchi
as Laundry girl
Crew
Director
- Giuseppe Piccioni
Producer
- Lionello Cerri
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Not of this World 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 Giuseppe Piccioni 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 Not of this World took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 100 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 155 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 7 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Not of this World shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Central Station, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Not of this World subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Baby's Day Out and The Dead Girl explore similar territory, Not of this World 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: March 26, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 40m
