49/16
Partenope is a woman named after her city. Mermaid or myth? In Greek myth, Partenope is the siren who committed suicide after failing to enchant Odysseus. Her body was carried by the tide to the site where Castel dell’Ovo now stands, giving its name to the city that later became Neapolis, Naples. In the film, Partenope is the personification of the city of Naples. Warmth Written by Peter Gregson Speakers: Peter Gregson, Warren Zielinski, Magdalena Filipczak, Laurie Anderson, Ashok Klouda. I was a little disappointed with his last film, È STATA LA MANO DI DIO, and with PARTHENOPE I remembered what it was that moved me so much about Sorrentino’s films. Everything is beautiful, from the city of Naples and its crystal-clear waters to the still unknown goddess Celeste da Porta. Add in the Fellini-esque recordings and Lele Marchitelli’s wonderful jazz music – you’ve got perfection. The beauty of life in its insignificance… You might think he’s making another GRANDE BELLEZZA, but he’s not. Once again, Sorrentino manages to surprise us with a new approach to what is ultimately the same subject. The film asks questions without answering them, as if to say that one should stop looking for answers and start observing beauty in the world as it is. As a result, the viewer leaves the cinema not with answers, but with an interesting view of life and, ultimately, death… Oh, and I almost forgot, the main character of the film is Gary Oldman. Although his screen time is limited, he gives an astonishing performance. Then he leaves, as if urging us to enjoy the film, convincing us (with his presence in the cast) to go and see it. So I know that not everyone will like it (some scenes are quite strange, I must admit), but for me, this movie gave me everything I did (and didn’t expect) when I entered the cinema. I sincerely hope/believe that it will win the Palme d’Or Grazie Paolo 😉
