Shadows of Sicily: Survival on the Streets

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MOVIE REVIEW
A Man On His Knees (Un uomo in Ginocchio)
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Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 1979, 2024 Radiance Films Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 48m
Director(s): Damiano Damiani
Writer(s): Nicola Badalucco, Damiano Damiani
Cast: Giuliano Gemma, Michele Placido, Eleonora Giorgi, Tano Cimarosa, Ettore Manni, Luciano Catenacci, Nello Pazzafini, Fabrizio Forte, Nazzareno Zamperla, Andrea Aureli
Where To Watch: available September 24. Pre-order your copy here: www.radiancefilms.co.uk, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: On the sun-drenched and shadow-filled streets of Palermo, Nino Peralta’s tale unfolds—a riveting narrative that doesn’t just chronicle his escape from a life of crime but plunges into a gripping saga of mistaken identities and relentless mafia pursuit. Trading the adrenaline of theft for the aroma of coffee, Nino’s quest for a peaceful life as a stall owner is quickly dashed as he finds himself a target in a nefarious plot that drags him back into the depths of the underworld. This isn’t your ordinary crime film; it’s a deep survival exploration against seemingly insurmountable odds.

A MAN ON HIS KNEES is a powerful study of human resilience. Director Damiano Damiani steers us through the intricate alleyways of Sicily, building a story that grips viewers with its unwavering intensity. The urban labyrinth becomes a canvas for cinematographer Ennio Guarnieri, whose lens captures the raw essence of Nino’s plight, contrasting the scenic beauty of Palermo with the grim reality of its street-level struggles. The visuals are windows into a world where beauty often masks the brutality of life.

Giuliano Gemma delivers a standout performance as Nino, breaking away from his traditional roles to embrace a character enveloped in vulnerability and grit. His on-screen adversary yet sometimes ally, Michele Placido’s portrayal of Antonio Platamonte, oscillates between foe and friend, weaving a complex web of interactions that are as unpredictable as they are compelling. Together, they elevate the narrative into a dynamic play of motivations and moves.

The film also benefits from the robust support of its secondary characters. Tano Cimarosa, as Nino’s longtime friend, injects moments of genuine camaraderie and fun into a script rich with tension. Eleonora Giorgi, as Lucia, evolves significantly throughout the film, her character growing from a marginal figure to a central pillar of strength for Nino, symbolizing the emotional backbone of their family.

Breaking away from the mold of typical genre films, A MAN ON HIS KNEES challenges the norm by presenting a protagonist who navigates through a gauntlet of moral and physical trials without the usual tropes of heroism or redemption. Though a foregone conclusion, the film’s climax is handled with such craftsmanship that it leaves a lingering impact, prompting viewers to reflect on organized crime’s pervasive reach and ruthless grip.

Radiance Films’ recent restoration revives the film’s visual and auditory allure and enhances the viewing experience. The film’s ambiance and period feel remain intact, augmented by valuable extras like insightful interviews and archival footage that enrich the viewer’s understanding of its cultural and historical contexts.

As a seminal piece in Italian crime cinema, A MAN ON HIS KNEES is a thrilling narrative and a profound sociopolitical commentary. With exceptional performances by Gemma and Placido, the film transcends its genre constraints, offering a deep dive into the challenges of confronting and overcoming the forces of corruption and adversity. It is an essential viewing for fans and a compelling introduction for those new to the genre, proving itself as a poignant exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and societal influence.

Bonus Materials:
New 4K restoration from the original negative
Uncompressed mono PCM audio
Archival interviews with stars Giuliano Gemma, Tano Cimarosa, and assistant director Mino Giarda
New interview with Alberto Pezzotta, author of Regia Damiano Damiani
Trailer
Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Filippo Di Battista
Booklet featuring new writing by Roberto Curti
Limited edition of 3000 copies, presented in full-height Scanavo packaging with removable OBI strip, leaving packaging free of certificates and markings

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[photo courtesy of RADIANCE FILMS, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

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