“The Best of Youth” (2003), directed by Marco Tullio Giordana, is a sweeping Italian drama that chronicles the lives of two brothers, Nicola and Matteo Carati, over several decades. Set against the backdrop of Italy’s social and political upheavals, the film delves deep into themes of family, love, loss, and redemption. With a runtime of six hours, this epicnarrative captures the essence of a generation’s journey through life.
Early signs of his mental health struggles foreshadow his tragic end.
Character Dynamics
The relationship between Nicola and Matteo drives the narrative, highlighting themes of familial bonds, loyalty, and the divergent paths taken by individuals. Their interactions reveal their deep love for each other, despite their ideological differences and personal struggles. This dynamic is a microcosm of the broader societal changes happening in Italy, emphasizing the impact of external events on personal relationships.
Breakdown: This scene uses visual juxtaposition and foreshadowing to underscore the emotional distance growing between Nicola and Matteo. The train symbolizes their diverging paths, and the somber music hints at the impending tragedy.
Breakdown: The liberation of Giorgia is depicted with vibrant lighting and an uplifting score, symbolizing freedom and hope. The scene uses allegory to represent broader societal changes and personal emancipation.
Conclusion
To wrap up our analysis, let’s test your understanding of the literary devices used in “The Best of Youth” with a quick quiz!
Quiz
1. What does the whale’s heart symbolize in the movie?
A) Nicola’s empathy
B) Matteo’s anger
C) Giorgia’s freedom
D) The family’s unity
2. Which literary device is used to hint at Matteo’s future struggles?