“Cento Domeniche” by Antonio Albanese: A Poignant Tale of Money, Morality, and Emotions

New Delhi/July 2024

In his latest film, “Cento Domeniche,” acclaimed Italian comedian, actor, and director Antonio Albanese skillfully crafts a poignant drama that captivates viewers with its gentle touch and profound impact. Albanese guides us through the trials of Antonio Riva, an ordinary man grappling with shattered dreams amidst a financial crisis. The film opens amidst the serene backdrop of the Lombard province, where Antonio’s life revolves around leisurely games of bowls, caring for his elderly mother, and the joy of preparing his daughter’s wedding. However, tranquility abruptly fades when Antonio discovers his savings have vanished due to a dubious financial move by the local bank.

What ensues is a compelling emotional odyssey, where betrayal and disillusionment intertwine with the struggle to uphold dignity and cherished values. Albanese, both as director and actor, delivers a remarkable performance, breathing life into Antonio’s profound and authentic character. His portrayal skillfully captures the complexities of human emotion, drawing viewers intimately into Antonio’s moments of joy and despair.

The film’s strength also lies in its stark portrayal of contemporary society’s contradictions and injustices. Through Antonio’s journey, we confront a harsh depiction of crisis-ridden Italy, where traditional values collide with unchecked greed and moral ambiguity.

While “Cento Domeniche” resonates deeply with its emotional depth and societal critique, it is not without flaws. Some plot developments feel contrived and unconvincing, and the narrative loses some coherence in the latter half. Additionally, the direction, though competent, occasionally veers into conventional territory without offering many surprises. Nevertheless, “Cento Domeniche” is a film that demands attention and discussion. Its ability to evoke profound emotions and provoke important reflections on contemporary issues ensures its place as a significant cinematic experience. Despite its imperfections, the strength of the performances and the relevance of its themes make it essential viewing for those eager to engage with thought-provoking cinema.

With an objective to promote Italian cinema and related industry, the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre in New Delhi presented ‘Fare Cinema: Italian Summer Film Festival’ last week. The festival opened with the screening of four short films, and Deputy Director of the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre, Ms. Callocchia Leonilde, delivered the introductory remarks. Introduced by acclaimed critic Mr. Murtaza Ali Khan, the festival featured a selection of ten short films curated by the National Short Film Centre of Turin. These films represent the most innovative and notable works produced in Italy during 2022-2023. Titles include ‘Impure,’ ‘Il Panda Minore,’ ‘Barolo is Dead,’ ‘Birdwatching,’ ‘Le Sirene,’ and ‘Zum See.’ In addition to the short films, the festival included screenings of two full-length feature films from the 2023 Rome Film Festival: ‘Palazzina LAF,’ directed by Michele Riondino, and ‘Cento Domeniche,’ directed by Antonio Albanese.

I was privileged to be invited during the screening of the closing film “Cento Domeniche” (A Hundred Sundays / Italian / 2023) by Antonio Albanese and a special panel featuring Mr. Andrea Anastasio, Director of the Italian Embassy Cultural Centre, Mr. Murtaza Ali Khan, Acclaimed Critic, and Mr. Biraj Patnaik, ED NFI, in the presence of Ms. Magdalena Filipczuk, Acting Director, Polish Institute New Delhi, Mr. Volodymyr Prytula & Ms. Olena Ilchuk from the Embassy of Ukraine in the Republic of India and several other dignitaries, said Jitendra Mishra, acclaimed filmmaker, promoter, and curator.

Mr. Jitendra Mishra

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker, promoter, curator and Jury member from India. Best known for pathbreaking films like The Last Color, Desires of the Heart, Human OAK, I am Kalam and others.