‘Ketticè’ Review: An Amusing, Original Portrait of Adolescent Ennui Against a Backdrop of Adult Cluelessness

**'Ketticè': A Refreshing Portrait of Adolescent Ennui in the Face of Adult Cluelessness**

In a cinematic landscape often dominated by formulaic portrayals of teenage angst, Giovanni Tortorici's 'Ketticè' emerges as a breath of fresh air. The film masterfully weaves a narrative that sets genuine adolescent nihilism against the backdrop of a stereotyped adult world, rejuvenating a time-tested formula with the story of an aimless rich kid that feels anything but aimless.

Background & Context

'Ketticè' is the sophomore effort from Tortorici, who has already made a name for himself with his critically acclaimed debut 'Diciannove'. The film takes place in Palermo, Italy, in 2012, a time when social media was still in its nascent stages, but had already become an indispensable part of daily life. Tortorici's film is a nuanced exploration of the adolescent experience, one that is often overlooked in favor of more sensationalized portrayals.

The film's use of music is also noteworthy, with the evocative voice of Lebanese singer Oumeima El Khalil accompanying a panoramic view of Palermo. Her song's dissociation from the locale and its simultaneous, unexpected suitability is a testament to Tortorici's skill as a filmmaker. The soundtrack, much like that of Luca Guadagnino, Tortorici's mentor and producer, adds a layer of depth to the film, drawing the viewer into the world of its characters.

Key Details

The film centers around Giulio (Salvatore Gallina), a 16-year-old who is struggling to find his place in the world. He lives with his parents, Vittoria (Monica Bellucci) and Antonio, in the family's historic palazzo, and attends a private school where small classes make for tight-knit camaraderie but don't guarantee that any learning sinks in. Giulio's main hardship is figuring out what he wants to do when he grows up, a problem that is exacerbated by his aimless existence.

The film's supporting cast is equally impressive, with Bellucci delivering a standout performance as the quasi-caricatured bourgeois mother. Her sneer is a thing of wonder, and she has few equals in her ability to project self-aware drama queen with just the right dose of camp icon. The young writer-director deliberately sets genuine adolescent nihilism off against the stereotyped adult world, rejuvenating a time-tested formula with the story of an aimless rich kid that feels anything but aimless.

One of the film's most memorable scenes is a hilarious dinner table scene during which Vittoria launches acidic barbs at her impervious mother-in-law (Stefania Raffadali) while passive Antonio lets it all wash over him. This kind of playful yet expressive use of visual language is what makes 'Ketticè' such a fun watch. The camera work is equally impressive, with the use of slow-mo pans and clever camera angles adding to the film's sense of realism.

What Experts Say

Tortorici's mastery of the directionless depths of the under-20 set is evident throughout the film. While some may protest the shallow depiction of working-class kids as opposed to their better-off peers, few will gainsay his thoroughgoing feel for character and mood as conveyed via camera angles and space. The film's use of music and visual language is also noteworthy, adding a layer of depth to the narrative that is rare in films about adolescence.

Key Takeaways

• The film's use of music is a key element in its success, adding a layer of depth to the narrative that is rare in films about adolescence.
• Tortorici's mastery of the directionless depths of the under-20 set is evident throughout the film, making 'Ketticè' a nuanced exploration of the adolescent experience.
• The film's supporting cast is equally impressive, with Bellucci delivering a standout performance as the quasi-caricatured bourgeois mother.
• The film's use of visual language is equally impressive, with the use of slow-mo pans and clever camera angles adding to the film's sense of realism.

What This Means For You

'Ketticè' is a film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they don't quite fit in. It's a nuanced exploration of the adolescent experience, one that is often overlooked in favor of more sensationalized portrayals. The film's use of music and visual language is also noteworthy, adding a layer of depth to the narrative that is rare in films about adolescence.

So, if you're looking for a film that will make you laugh, cry, and think, then 'Ketticè' is the perfect choice. With its talented cast, impressive visuals, and nuanced exploration of the adolescent experience, this film is a must-see for anyone who is interested in the complexities of growing up.