Paolo Virzi taps into the vintage spirit of Italy’s beloved commedia all’italiana genre with features that deliver a special combination of compassionate laughter and social critique. With a light but assured touch, Virzi and his regular writing partner Francesco Bruni skewer contemporary mores and social behavior while gracefully balancing large ensemble casts—ranging from Italy’s finest actors to energetic and talented unknowns. That the satire never loses genuine compassion for characters haplessly in thrall to their own follies is a trademark of Virzi’s delightful comedies. This mid-career retrospective introduces the director’s popular brand of films, which has reinvigorated the genre with an intelligent and generous balance of laughter and humanity. All films directed by Virzi, from Italy, and in Italian with English subtitles, unless otherwise noted. Virzi will be present for screenings on December 15, 16, and 17.
Organized by Jytte Jensen, Curator, Department of Film; with the generous collaboration of Cinecittà Holding, Rome (Camilla Cormanni, Rossella Rinaldi); and The Italian Cultural Institute, New York (Amelia Carpenito).
Thanks to Cecchi Gori Group, Filmexport Group, Telecine Productions, and Empire Pictures.