Happy as Lazzaro (Members’ Choice)

June 30

A mesmerising, allegorical drama from director Alice Rohrwacher (Corpo Celeste, The Wonders). When a kind-hearted farm boy in a remote Italian village befriends a young nobleman cursed by his imagination, they form an unlikely & life-altering bond. Lazzaro, played by newcomer Adriano Tardiolo, portrays the timeless archetype, the holy fool. In the director’s words, she sees Lazzaro as an alternative male hero: ‘I see my country today, with its ethic of brutalism and male strength… I wanted to show someone who is perceived as innocent and weak as a man, but who is really good.’ (Jonathan Romney’s Guardian interview). Rohrwacher’s treatment, seen by critics as an unconventional contemporary take on Italian neorealism should be enough to spark enthusiasm, it’s also good to know it’s a fascinating watch garnering praise from critics and audiences alike.

‘Slips across time and genres with a honeyed beauty … sliding from neorealist tradition into magic realism.’

Simran Hans, Observer.

Wins include Cannes for Best Screenplay, European Film Awards and 16 other major prizes.

Starring

Adriano Tardiolo, Agnese Graziani, Alba Rohrwacher