Apr 24, 2009 – May 22, 2009
Daily
Il Divo is a searing political biopic of three-time Italian Prime Minister and Senator-for-life Giulio Andreotti, which focuses on his unparalleled power, sharp wit, and alleged Mafia connections. But, far from a sober retelling of Andreotti's biography, director Paolo Sorrentino's film employs clever graphics, droll voice-overs, and montage to bring the tale's irony and intrigue into vivid relief. Fifty-one-year-old Tom Servillo finally achieves international recognition with his subtle and restrained portrayal of Andreotti; this star turn following an equally impressive performance in this year's acclaimed docudrama Gomorrah. And even the score warrants attention: the music segues artfully from classical to contemporary, juxtaposing an original score by Teho Teardo and selections from Vivaldi with tracks by Barbara Morgenstern and Beth Orton.
– Eli Dvorkin