
Few filmmakers possess the ability to transform the intricacies of political power into cinematic poetry quite like Paolo Sorrentino. In Il Divo: The Extraordinary Life of Giulio Andreotti (Il Divo: La straordinaria vita di Giulio Andreotti), Sorrentino takes on the enigmatic and controversial figure of Giulio Andreotti, a seven-time Italian prime minister whose career was marred by allegations of corruption, mafia ties, and political intrigue.
Released in 2008, Il Divo is more than a biopic—it’s a darkly satirical exploration of the machinery of power, featuring a magnetic performance by Toni Servillo in the title role. Sorrentino’s visual flair and biting script elevate this film into a haunting meditation on the moral ambiguities of politics.
The Plot: Unraveling the Enigma of Giulio Andreotti
The film begins during the early 1990s, as Andreotti faces a shifting political landscape following decades of dominance. Having presided over Italy’s Christian Democracy party for much of the post-war era, Andreotti finds himself under investigation for alleged connections to the Sicilian Mafia and involvement in political murders.
Rather than following a linear narrative, Il Divo weaves together episodes from Andreotti’s life, including his political machinations, interactions with allies and adversaries, and deeply private moments of self-reflection. The film paints Andreotti as a Machiavellian figure—cold, calculating, and shrouded in mystery.
Through its fragmented storytelling, Il Divo captures the labyrinthine complexity of Italian politics, where alliances shift, secrets abound, and morality is often sacrificed on the altar of power.
Toni Servillo as Giulio Andreotti: A Hypnotic Performance
Toni Servillo delivers a transformative performance as Giulio Andreotti, embodying the former prime minister with chilling precision. With his hunched posture, clipped speech, and impassive demeanor, Servillo captures Andreotti’s inscrutability and iron control.
Despite Andreotti’s apparent lack of emotion, Servillo conveys layers of inner turmoil and complexity. His performance oscillates between dark humor and quiet menace, creating a character who is as fascinating as he is impenetrable.
This role earned Servillo widespread acclaim, including the European Film Award for Best Actor. His portrayal remains one of the defining aspects of Il Divo, elevating the film’s exploration of power and its moral consequences.
Paolo Sorrentino’s Visionary Direction
Paolo Sorrentino’s direction is nothing short of masterful. Known for his lavish visual style and penchant for blending realism with surrealism, Sorrentino turns Il Divo into a feast for the senses.
The film’s cinematography, courtesy of Luca Bigazzi, is a standout feature. Sorrentino frames Andreotti against grand, shadowy backdrops, emphasizing his isolation and the weight of his power. The use of slow-motion, dramatic lighting, and bold camera movements creates an operatic atmosphere, heightening the tension and drama.
Sorrentino’s script is equally sharp, blending biting satire with moments of introspection. The dialogue crackles with wit, often highlighting the absurdity of the political world Andreotti inhabits.
Themes of Power, Morality, and Corruption
At its core, Il Divo is a meditation on the nature of power and its corrosive effects. The film presents Andreotti as a man who has wielded immense influence but at a great personal and moral cost. His calculated decisions, many of which have devastating consequences, raise questions about the ethics of political leadership.
The film also explores the intersection of politics and organized crime, a topic deeply rooted in Italian history. Andreotti’s alleged mafia connections serve as a metaphor for the blurred lines between legality and corruption in the pursuit of power.
Through its nuanced portrayal of Andreotti, Il Divo challenges viewers to grapple with the complexities of morality in a political context. Is Andreotti a villain, a pragmatist, or simply a man shaped by a corrupt system? Sorrentino leaves the answer tantalizingly ambiguous.
Ennio Morricone and the Unforgettable Soundtrack
While Sorrentino often collaborates with contemporary musicians for his films, Il Divo features a mix of classical music and modern compositions that amplify its operatic tone. The film’s eclectic soundtrack underscores the tension and absurdity of Andreotti’s world, with each piece carefully chosen to enhance the mood.
The music, combined with Sorrentino’s striking visuals, creates a sensory experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Critical Reception and Accolades
Il Divo premiered at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival, where it won the Jury Prize, solidifying Sorrentino’s reputation as one of Italy’s most innovative filmmakers. Critics praised the film’s bold style, compelling narrative, and Servillo’s magnetic performance.
The film went on to receive widespread acclaim internationally, earning nominations and awards from various festivals and organizations. It is often cited as one of the greatest political films of the 21st century.
Why Il Divo Remains Relevant
More than a decade after its release, Il Divo remains a potent exploration of the complexities of political power. Its themes of corruption, morality, and the opaque nature of leadership resonate in today’s world, where questions of accountability and transparency are as pressing as ever.
Sorrentino’s portrayal of Andreotti serves as a cautionary tale, reminding viewers of the dangers of unchecked authority and the human cost of political ambition.
FAQs
What is Il Divo about?
The film examines the life and career of Giulio Andreotti, a seven-time Italian prime minister, focusing on his political influence, alleged mafia ties, and moral ambiguities.
Who directed Il Divo?
The film was directed by Paolo Sorrentino, known for his visually stunning and thought-provoking works such as The Great Beauty (La Grande Bellezza).
Why is Il Divo considered a masterpiece?
Its bold visual style, sharp script, and Toni Servillo’s extraordinary performance make it a standout film that blends political intrigue with cinematic artistry.
What themes does the film explore?
The film delves into themes of power, morality, corruption, and the personal cost of political leadership.
Did Giulio Andreotti respond to the film?
Andreotti reportedly dismissed the film, claiming it exaggerated and caricatured his character, but he did not dispute its artistic merit.
What awards did Il Divo win?
The film won the Jury Prize at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival and received numerous accolades for its direction, acting, and screenplay.
Conclusion
Il Divo is a cinematic triumph that combines political intrigue with visual poetry. Paolo Sorrentino’s bold direction, Toni Servillo’s mesmerizing performance, and the film’s unflinching exploration of power and corruption make it a must-watch for cinephiles and political enthusiasts alike.
As both a portrait of a man and a critique of a system, Il Divo transcends the boundaries of the biopic genre, offering a gripping and thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the final frame. Whether you’re drawn to its striking visuals, its sharp satire, or its profound themes, Il Divo is a masterpiece that demands attention.