Rome’s Tale of Two Worlds in One Man

Read Time:3 Minute, 42 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Legionnaire (Il legionario)
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Genre: Action, Drama
Year Released: 2021, 2024
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director(s): Hleb Papou
Writer(s): Giuseppe Brigante, Emanuele Mochi, Hleb Papou
Cast: Germano Gentile, Maurizio Bousso, Giacomo Ciarrapico, Marco Falaguasta, Ina Gjika, Ilir Jacellari, Hedy Krissane
Language: Italian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: makes its North American premiere on Film Movement Plus on February 16, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: In THE LEGIONNAIRE, we're instantly whisked away into the bustling streets of Rome, a city as ancient as it is pulsating with modernity. Hleb Papou crafts a narrative teeming with the vibrancy and complexities of life in Italy's storied capital. Through the eyes of Daniel (Germano Gentile,) an Afro-Italian riot police officer, we're offered a window into a world where personal and professional realms collide with the force of historical conviction. This isn't your everyday cop drama; it's a deep dive into the soul of Rome, seen through a lens that balances the scales of justice and family with a deft hand.

Papou's Rome is a city of contrasts, where the past and present are in constant dialogue. Daniel, or "Ciobar," as his colleagues affectionately call him, is our guide through this maze of challenges, standing at the crossroads of loyalty and belonging. The film encapsulates the essence of modern-day dilemmas, wrapping them in a story that's as engaging as it is reflective. As Daniel navigates his dual identity—caught between the brotherhood of the badge and the bonds of blood—the audience is invited to ponder their stance on the precarious balance between duty and family ties.

I would have loved to see a deeper examination of the subplot involving Daniel and his brother Patrick, which was ripe with dramatic potential that felt only partially explored. What could have been a riveting exploration of family in the face of societal pressures ends up feeling like a missed opportunity for a deeper emotional resonance. Additionally, while the film addresses the critical themes of racial and ethnic identity with a commendable sensitivity, one can't help but feel that a more thorough examination would have added layers of complexity to Daniel's character arc.

Nonetheless, THE LEGIONNAIRE remains a film of considerable merit. Germano Gentile's performance as Daniel is a high point, bringing a nuanced authenticity to the role that anchors the film's ambitious narrative. Under Papou's direction, the movie navigates the turbulent waters of identity, duty, and belonging with a grace that resonates long after the credits roll. While many who read my reviews regularly probably know my thoughts on the police, this story was begging to be told. It handled everything with such thought, not just throwing out a narrative but making it so that you would think about these moments for yourself.

THE LEGIONNAIRE is a compelling journey that takes us deep into the heart of Rome's cultural and societal strife, as seen through the prism of one man's life. While it may not delve as deeply into the crevices of its themes as hoped, it sparks a meaningful conversation about the multifaceted nature of identity today. The film leaves a lasting impression, encouraging us to consider the unseen battles that shape our societies and ourselves.

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[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT]

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