America Latina

Damiano and Fabio D'Innocenzo, already known in the Italian film world thanks to "La terra dell'abbastanza" and "Favolacce", present at the Venice Film Festival "America Latina", a psychological thriller that stands out for its mastery. The film follows Massimo Sisti, portrayed by Elio Germano, a dentist in Latina whose quiet life is disrupted by the discovery of a girl tied up in his basement. "America Latina" takes us on a gradual and tragic journey into Massimo's existential hell, whose seemingly serene world crumbles after the unexpected event. Elio Germano delivers an extraordinary interpretation of the character, while the D'Innocenzo brothers guide the audience through an intimate and profound experience. The film effectively blends elements of thriller and psychological drama, portraying Massimo's house as a deformed place reflecting his troubled psyche. The symbolism-rich cinematography draws inspiration from Italian horror cinema, while the meticulous sound design adds a sense of growing unease. However, the choice to subtract rather than add details in the plot could prove problematic, making the narrative progression less impactful. Although the mystery surrounding the tied-up girl creates constant tension, it may leave some viewers with few answers. The film explores the contradiction between the apparent tranquility of Massimo's life and the darkness lurking behind the facade, shedding light on the human and narrative ruins of the outskirts of Latina. While some viewers may appreciate the baroque approach and the reflection stimulated by the subtraction of details, others may feel lost in a labyrinth of elusive meanings."America Latina" represents a bold experiment in Italian cinema. While it may be too abstract for some, others may be fascinated by the dark shadows permeating the narrative, anchored by Elio Germano's masterful performance.