Directed by Alice Rohrwacher, Happy As Lazzaro is a critically acclaimed masterpiece that blends magical realism with biting social commentary. The film, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2018, earned Rohrwacher the award for Best Screenplay, solidifying her reputation as one of contemporary cinema’s most visionary storytellers. With its poetic narrative and evocative visuals, Happy As Lazzaro captivates audiences with its timeless themes and unforgettable characters.
At its heart, the film tells the extraordinary story of Lazzaro, a young peasant whose pure and selfless nature often leads others to underestimate him. Lazzaro lives in Inviolata, a remote village seemingly untouched by modernity, where the oppressive rule of Marchesa Alfonsina de Luna, “the queen of cigarettes,” dictates every aspect of life. The villagers toil endlessly under her exploitative feudal system, unaware they are trapped in an outdated and illegal social order.
Lazzaro’s life takes a dramatic turn when he meets Tancredi, the Marchesa’s restless and imaginative son. Despite their vastly different social standings, the two form an unexpected and tender friendship. Tancredi, feeling suffocated by his mother’s control, devises a wild plan to fake his own kidnapping, enlisting Lazzaro’s help. This peculiar scheme not only deepens their bond but also sets the stage for a series of events that will transcend time and space.
Rohrwacher’s storytelling takes a surreal turn when a mysterious twist catapults Lazzaro decades into the future. Transported from his pastoral village to the bustling chaos of the modern world, Lazzaro becomes a haunting symbol of innocence in a society driven by greed and cynicism. As he searches for Tancredi in the city, Lazzaro’s unwavering kindness and naivety remain unshaken, making him a poignant reminder of humanity’s lost values.
Alice Rohrwacher’s Vision
Alice Rohrwacher is celebrated for her ability to craft deeply human stories imbued with magical realism and layered social critique. In Happy As Lazzaro, she draws on Italy’s rural past and its complicated relationship with modernity to create a fable-like narrative. Rohrwacher’s direction is marked by an earthy, tactile beauty, as seen in her use of 16mm film, which lends a timeless, dreamlike quality to the visuals. The juxtaposition of the idyllic countryside with the stark realities of urban life amplifies the film’s exploration of class disparity and the erosion of communal bonds.
Critical Reception
Critics have hailed Happy As Lazzaro as a cinematic triumph, praising its originality, emotional depth, and visual splendor. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian described it as “a glowing, miraculous film,” awarding it five stars. He highlighted Rohrwacher’s ability to blend the mundane and the mythical, creating a story that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. Similarly, Justin Chang of the Los Angeles Times called it “a delicate, wondrous fable that transcends time and space,” noting how the film’s themes of innocence and exploitation are as relevant today as ever.
The performances, particularly that of Adriano Tardiolo as Lazzaro, have also drawn widespread acclaim. Tardiolo’s portrayal of Lazzaro is both heart-wrenching and endearing, capturing the character’s profound goodness with understated grace. Luca Chikovani, who plays Tancredi, brings a contrasting energy, embodying the restless spirit of privilege and rebellion. Together, their dynamic anchors the film’s emotional core.
Themes and Impact
At its core, Happy As Lazzaro is a meditation on the enduring power of kindness and the corrosive effects of social inequality. The film’s layered narrative examines the exploitation of the vulnerable, the loss of innocence, and the disconnection between past and present. Rohrwacher’s ability to weave these themes into a story that feels both intimate and epic ensures its place as a modern classic.
With its unique blend of whimsy and realism, Happy As Lazzaro invites audiences to reflect on their own humanity. Lazzaro’s unyielding goodness serves as a quiet yet powerful challenge to a world often defined by self-interest, leaving viewers with a lingering sense of hope—and a reminder of what it means to truly care for one another.
