A Gritty, Reflective Psychological Journey

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MOVIE REVIEW
The Inner Cage (Ariaferma)
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2021, 2023 Film Movement Plus
Runtime: 1h 57m
Director(s): Leonardo Di Costanzo
Writer(s): Leonardo Di Costanzo, Bruno Olivero, Valia Santella
Cast: Toni Servillo, Silvio Orlando, Fabrizio Ferracane, Salvatore Striano, Roberto De Francesco, Pietro Giuliano, Nicola Sechi, Leonardo Capuano, Antonio Buil
Language: Italian with English subtitles
Where To Watch: premieres on December 22, 2023, exclusively on Film Movement Plus

RAVING REVIEW: THE INNER CAGE, directed by Leonardo Di Costanzo, is a journey set in a deserted Italian prison on the brink of closure. It explores and examines the human psyche, challenging the traditional guard-prisoner dichotomy and leaving viewers mulling over its complexities long after the screen fades to black. The worldwide jailing system is outdated and archaic, so even though this is a fictionalized account, there are prisons out there looking at different ways to evolve this obsolete structure.

In this evocative drama, a 19th-century Italian prison breathes life into the film, mirroring its characters' inner turmoil and evolution. Di Costanzo constructs a narrative where the lines between the captors and their charges are blurred, presenting a thought-provoking story beyond the usual prison movie tropes. The plot thickens when Gargiulo (Toni Servillo), a correctional officer, and his crew find themselves stuck within the prison walls due to administrative issues, setting the stage for an insightful examination of power dynamics in confinement.

THE INNER CAGE unfolds deliberately, gradually drawing the audience into its world. The film's second half marks a significant shift towards empathy, moving away from the typical grim atmosphere of prison dramas. This change in tone reflects Di Costanzo's intent to look into the nuances of the prison system, steering clear of the genre's traditional black-and-white moral lens.

The film's core is bolstered by the compelling performances of Servillo and Silvio Orlando (Lagioia). Their interactions bring depth to their characters, portraying them as complex individuals beyond their roles within the prison's hierarchy. This dynamic effectively captures the film's central theme of the blurred lines.

Breaking free from the constraints of its setting, THE INNER CAGE touches upon universal themes such as power, control, and humanity's innate longing for connection. The film offers a more optimistic take on human behavior in restrictive environments.

The film's deliberate pacing and emphasis on character over action may only resonate with some viewers, especially those accustomed to fast-paced, action-oriented prison dramas. This is why trying new things is essential; with a nearly 2-hour runtime, the film was over before I knew it, and I took an appreciation from it that I wasn’t expecting.

THE INNER CAGE has an innovative soundtrack with free jazz drum solos that add emotional intensity, enhancing the film's atmospheric and dynamic storytelling. This musical choice harmoniously complements the narrative's depth and overall tone.

In conclusion, THE INNER CAGE stands out as a thought-provoking, character-driven film that challenges the conventions of the prison film genre (and the more extensive system itself.) It offers a fresh perspective on the dynamics of power and interpersonal relationships within the environment of a correctional facility. It distinguishes itself with powerful performances, striking visual storytelling, and its capacity to immerse audiences in a complex thematic exploration. For those willing to immerse themselves in its reflective pace and tone, THE INNER CAGE provides a rewarding and lingering cinematic experience.

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[photo courtesy of FILM MOVEMENT PLUS]