Since my recent move to Toronto, I have had the delight of fulfilling my love for movies, at the Toronto International Film Festival. The annual showcase of films brings together people from around the globe and the anticipation that the city builds over the ten-day event is a feeling unlike any other. There was little difference to the previous year as the streets filled with fans of celebrities and people crammed into theatres eager to view the world premieres of films set to come out next year. Yet TIFF is more inclusive towards religion this year as the festival falls on the high holy days for Jewish people, which resulted in a pop-up synagogue.
Film topics are more concentrated on the socio-political events in the world such as the rise of populism, addiction, and corruption in governments such as Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11.
This year, I had the opportunity to watch Loro, a film by Italian director Paolo Sorrentino. This film is about the Italian populist Silvio Berlusconi and it chronicles his fall from power due to copious sex scandals. Actors included Toni Servillo who shined as Berlusconi and trademarked a permanent smile that was not reassuring nor trustworthy.
The movie itself is slow to pick up as the first hour drags on with scenes familiar to that of the 2012 adaptation of The Great Gatsby. However, once Berlusconi is introduced, the movie picks up the pace. The set pieces and shots are stunning, and the acting is noteworthy. The soundtrack is full of energy and life. Though the film is quite lengthy, Sorrentino manages to keep people focused by his cast of splendid actors and actresses.
I enjoyed the film, and if you are a fan of The Wolf of Wall Street, The Great Gatsby, and War Dogs, I think you would enjoy it too. It is a satirical portrait of political leaders, and definitely a must see as it is highly relevant to the world at the moment. If you are interested in politics and know of Berlusconi, I highly recommend this film.
