Cast
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Gina Lollobrigida
as Marietta
Pierre Brasseur
as Don Cesare
Marcello Mastroianni
as Enrico Tosso
Melina Mercouri
as Donna Lucrezia
Yves Montand
as Matteo Brigante
Raf Mattioli
as Francesco Brigante
Vittorio Caprioli
as Attilio
Lidia Alfonsi
as Giuseppina
Nino Vingelli
as Pizzaccio
Bruno Carotenuto
as Balbo
Paolo Stoppa
as Tonio
Luisa Rivelli
as Elvira
Anna Arena
as Anna - la moglie d'Attilio
Gianrico Tedeschi
as
Anna Maria Bottini
as Maria
Crew
Director
- Jules Dassin
Producer
- Maleno Malenotti
- Jacques Bar
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Law 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 Jules Dassin 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 1959, 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 The Law took approximately 13 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 165 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 269 unique costume pieces for the production.
- 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 1959, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Law shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike In the Mood for Love, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Law offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like 2046 and Trouble in Paradise explore similar territory, The Law 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: January 25, 1959
- Runtime: 1h 50m
Where to Watch
