I Cento Passi is a compelling film about a mafioso’s son who is a communist. The movie takes the disguise of a mafia film, while it is really an activist piece. This is evident in the extreme focus on the protagonist as compared to the rest of the characters in the film. As it begins, it is expected that it will be about a mafia family, and it is in part, however the lens is quickly shifted to Peppino, a now communist after the assassination of his beloved mafia leader. From then on, the contents of the film are strictly about the Communist, anti mafia movement, and not the mafia itself. There are many films made in this period about Communism, hippies, and anything else relating to the sort, most of them lacking clear distinction between each other. However, I Cento Passi sends this message in a completely different light by making the topic the mafia. Thus concentrating on true Italian societal issues, and not just a greater theme. This is where Italian films can shine, as the intricacies of culture and deep societal issues are less known to foreigners. In this, I Cento Passi also tells a clear story of family, which is very typical of Italian films. The main focus in this is the relationship between Peppino and his father, and mother. In a way, Peppino can be seen as a traitor to his family by not following his father into the mafia trade, and even more so by publicly speaking out against it and even leading the rebellion. This deeply conflicts with his father, as he must stay with the mafia and control his son, while struggling with his parental urges to support his son. This is evident in detail that he has secretly been reading Peppino’s articles, as it shows he not only supports him, but is likely proud of his son. Luigi shows more morals and love than is ever visible at surface level, thus effectively communicating that relationships are not a simple black and white, but are very complex. This is one sub-theme that the film gets across in a clear manner, as it is able to show all of its messages in a similar way, hence making a quality film in protest of mafia and corruption.
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