The Conformist is a 1970 movie directed by Bernardo Bertolucci.
WHAT HAPPENS?
An Italian man, Marcelo, is coerced by the Fascist government to kill his old teacher, now an anti-fascist dissident living in Paris. Marcelo comes to terms with a complicated past, which affects his relationship with two women – one his fiance, the other the dissident’s wife.
ONE LINE REVIEW
The Conformist is an intriguing political thriller encased in gorgeous cinematography.
THE ACTORS
Jean-Louis Trintignant is quietly fascinating as Marcelo, a man who we never fully know. He’s a slightly timid Fascist party operative reluctantly about to marry Stefania Sandrelli’s Guilia, who he dismisses as “all bed and kitchen.” As the movie progresses, he becomes enamored with Dominique Sanda’s Anna – the dissident’s wife. Later, we’re given glimpses into Marcelo’s past, which includes some homosexual activity. Trintignant blends all these facets to create a complex character – he’s both bold and bewildered in moments and stoic and frozen in others.
The supporting cast is excellent, including Sandrelli and Sanda. The two perfectly contrast each other – Sandrelli’s Guilia is daft and bubbly, while Sanda is initially all smoke and swagger – and fully aware of Marcelo’s motives. Their chasm of difference is striking, yet Bertolucci draws them together during a memorable, vibrant dance scene. Others involved include Gastone Moschin, who plays Fascist spy Manganiello with a deft comedic touch.
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