1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

[8.25/10] I'm Not Scared (2003)


Io Non Ho Paura

a.k.a.

I'm Not Scared (2003)

"I'm Not Scared" has an intriguing plot about a group of typical youngsters leading the carefree existence of childhood in the rolling hills of southern Italy in 1978. While playing in the ruins of a deserted farmhouse, one of them, Filippo, discovers a hidden underground bunker. Curiosity leads to the discovery of a shackled young boy imprisoned therein, with whom Filippo builds up a certain rapport, as they both happen to be same age. What starts out as a seemingly innocent depiction of friendship soon unfolds as a dramatic and gripping story. As the story continues to unfold we wonder how this might conclude, since the major plot point must have resolution. And as we have been treated to several eyebrow-raising moments along the way, it suffices to say the ending is equal to the setup. Beautifully-directed, captivating, and yet managing to draw the fine line between a story about young friendship, and a kidnapping, "Io Non Ho Paura" has everything. You can truly empathize with the boys' story, as you are drawn deeper into it. This is a film that can best be described as truly alive. Giuseppe Cristiano's portrayal of Michele is commanding and sensitive, backed up by a more than capable performance from Mattia Di Pierro as Filippo. The children are a joy to watch, exuding raw talent and emotion throughout every scene. You are completely drawn into a world of innocence, beauty, friendship and ultimately, danger. The artistry is good in terms of superior cinematics, effective use of color, good camera angles, and exceptional scene balance. It features great locations, and it's beautifully photographed and directed by Italo Petriccione and Gabriele Salvatores. "I'm Not Scared" is a film about that culminating moment of childhood, when you finally find out the real nature of the world you had been born into, when you discover the evil faces behind the masks of joyful light-heartedness. This is high-grade populist filmmaking, with strong performances from both adults and children, and thoughtfully directed at every step.

  • My Rating: 8.25/10
  • Rotten Tomatoes: 91% (7.5/10)
  • IMDb: 7.6/10

5 comments:

Jaccstev said...

A tense and mesmerizing thriller, this grabbing me both emotionally and viscerally.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

I've struggled so hard to find this film, but it worth the effort. It was so visually and emotionally overwhelming, it blew me away:)

Amila Kanchana said...

Tempted by your review,I've just watched a trailer on you tube,it did look promising.Thank you for the wonderful review.

AMILA'S MOVIE REVIEWS

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Thank you, Amila! I'm glad that my review has inspired your desire to watch this film. :) This film's truly incredible!

Amila Kanchana said...

Hi, I finally watched it. You were absolutely right about it. One of the best movie experiences ever!