Noir Meets Giallo in a Unique Fusion

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Facts Of Murder
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Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Year Released: 1959, 2023 Radiance Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 55m
Director(s): Pietro Germi
Writer(s): Alfredo Giannetti, Ennio De Concini, Pietro Germi, Carlo Emilio Gadda
Cast: Pietro Germi, Claudia Cardinale, Claudio Gora, Franco Fabrizi, Cristina Gaioni, Eleonora Rossi Drago, Saro Urzì, Nino Castelnuovo, Rosolino Bua, Loretta Capitoli, Nanda De Santis
Where To Watch: available January 2, 2024; pre-order here www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: In THE FACTS OF MURDER, Pietro Germi invites us on a trip through Italy’s shadowy lanes of the past, bringing together the dark essence of noir with the mystery of the Giallo genre. This film is a vibrant departure from some of Germi's past neorealist work, showcasing an evolution in his filmmaking approach. As the detective, Germi's performance is a delightful concoction of professional insight and Italian charm, adding depth to an already rich narrative.

Germi's THE FACTS OF MURDER is a visual odyssey through Rome of a different period. As both the director and the leading actor, Germi brilliantly transitions from his realist roots to a more complex, multi-layered narrative style. This film represents a significant chapter in his career, blending traditional elements with innovative storytelling and showing the city in a way I haven’t seen in any movie before.

Adapted from Carlo Emilio Gadda's renowned novel, the film steps away from the conventional Italian drama of the day and ventures into a homage to American film noir. Germi’s role as the detective, complete with quintessential “noir accessories” – a cigar, hat, and sunglasses – respectfully tips the hat to the legendary figures of this beloved genre. The plot, beginning with a simple theft, quickly unravels into mystery and intrigue, revealing each twist's deeper, darker truths.

THE FACTS OF MURDER distinguishes itself with its vivid portrayal of Italy's diverse societal landscape. The film navigates through the various social levels of Italian life, offering a comprehensive view of Rome's complexity. While not what one would consider psychological, the characters are depicted with authenticity and richness, embodying flaws that stop short of outright criminality.

Germi infuses the character with intelligence and charisma, grounding the narrative in realism, a benefit of being both lead actor and director. This is further complemented by the film's attention to the dynamics within Roman society, creating a compelling backdrop for the unfolding story.

Claudia Cardinale delivered a standout performance in her early twenties, demonstrating her acting skills and captivating screen presence. Supported by solid performances from Saro Urzi, Claudio Gora, and Franco Fabrizi, the film presents a multi-dimensional narrative, exploring societal issues and creating a thoroughly engaging viewing experience.

The opening sequence in Rome’s iconic Piazza Farnese perfectly sets the tone for THE FACTS OF MURDER, combining melancholy with a profound connection to its Roman setting. Beyond a typical detective story, THE FACTS OF MURDER looks into the darker aspects of Italian society, revealing the sinister sides of human nature. Germi's humor and darkness uncover a society where appearances are paramount. The film's critical exploration of issues, such as the enduring impact of fascism and the complexities of human relationships, adds significant depth to its narrative. (not to mention a mirror of the modern day.)

THE FACTS OF MURDER stands out as a significant work in Germi's filmography, exemplifying the perfect blend of genres. With its complex narrative, compelling performances, and deep societal insights, this film goes beyond its detective story roots to offer a captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Bonus Materials
– New 4K restoration of the film by L'Immagine Ritrovata at the Cineteca di Bologna, world premiere on High Definition Blu-ray (1080p)
– Uncompressed mono PCM audio
– New interview with Pietro Germi expert Mario Sesti (2023)
– The Man With the Cigar in His Mouth – a documentary about Pietro Germi featuring interviews with his colleagues and collaborators, including Mario Monicelli, Claudia Cardinale, Stefania Sandrelli, and Giuseppe Tornatore, among others (Mario Sesti, 1997, 41 mins
– What's Black and Yellow All Over? All Shades of Italian Film Noir – visual essay by Paul A. J. Lewis on the presence of noir trends in Italian cinema and the evolution of the genre (2023)

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[photo courtesy of RADIANCE FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]