Gamorra

For You

A great question to ask at the end of this film is, "Which storyline was your favorite?" There is much to take in with Gomorra—it's a spiderweb of vignettes focusing on the Italian Mafia and how it affects all classes and ages. This is the meat of the film, and it's saying something distinct about Mafia culture. Here in the states we think to ourselves that getting a good education, moving up in the world, daring to keep kids of drugs; all of this can get you ahead in life. Gomorra is saying that even if you do that, the end result is the same—the company that hires you will be run by the mob anyway.

It's risky to think that Gomorra represents the true Italy (this is still a movie, complete with elaborate narratives and suspense), but hiding behind the cinéma vérité lay thought-provoking comments on culture, code of conduct, and class mobility.


For Me

When was the last time you saw a modern Italian film? (I'm not counting Life is Beautiful or Cinema Paradiso. These are a different kind of film, in a genre of their own. Women love them, which creeps me out.) It's great to see something well made, superbly acted, and expertly written come out of Italy.

I am a goddamn mind reader when it comes to plot lines and viewer expectations. Gomorra constantly surprised, caught me off guard, and worked against anything I was waiting for. All the while maintaining a subtle attitude, taking itself seriously, but not manipulating the viewer. If we were manipulated at all with this film, it was in the story surrounding the author of the books that Gomorra is based on. He's in hiding now, apparently after telling too many secret truths that belonged solely to the Mafia. This forces us to think we are watching "true stories," and I'm not falling for it.

Gomorra is a great film, but will lose it's luster upon repeat viewings. It's success lies in it's suspense. The Hurt Locker, my favorite film of 2009, suffers from the same syndrome—after the first time you see it, you're blown away. Moved. Affected. But re-watching, what us film nerdies do best, reveals mistakes, not perfection. If you haven't seen either of these movies, save it for the right occasion. Consider it your virginity.

Gamorrah Trailer

The Hurt Locker Trailer