Review. 'Grace': Between the Burden of Memory and the Need to Act
This article reviews the film 'Halastus' ('Grace') by Paolo Sorrentino, exploring its themes of memory, politics, and generational issues.
The article is a review of Paolo Sorrentino's new film 'Halastus' ('Grace'), highlighting its central question: 'Whose days do these belong to?'. This question ties into broader political and generational themes that the film grapples with but leaves unresolved. The narrative focuses on fictional Republic President Mariano de Santis, portrayed by Toni Servillo, who is portrayed as a jurist and former judge with a complex history before entering politics.
As the film unfolds, it uses the character of de Santis to delve into the intersections of memory and action, symbolically referencing the Italian judiciary system and its autonomy as outlined in the Italian Constitution. The review suggests that while the film hints at the judiciary as a higher power, it is primarily a symbolic backdrop against which personal and political dilemmas are played out. Sorrentino seems to challenge audiences to contemplate not only the political landscape but also personal identity amidst significant change.
In summary, 'Halastus' is portrayed as a reflective piece that intertwines personal and political narratives, effectively leaving audiences in contemplation without offering clear resolutions. It invites viewers to explore themes of nostalgia, responsibility, and the pursuit of meaning in a complex societal framework, solidifying Sorrentino's reputation for creating deeply thought-provoking cinema.