Despite the stellar reputation of the novel this movie is based on, it was a painful experience to watch.
The main character is leading partisan Enne 2, a type of man I cannot stand anymore, the one who does not speak but grunts and seems incapable of stringing together a sentence. Otherwise known as the "strong and silent man " cliche.
Besides being inarticulate and in deeply enmeshed with the resistance fight against the Germans, in occupied Milan, Enne 2 has some unfinished sentimental business with ex-girlfriend Berta, whom he left three years previously. Berta is now married, but on the fence about leaving hubby for Enne 2.
In the meantime, Enne 2 underground cell is hitting the Germans and getting retaliation.
This sounds a lot more interesting and dynamic than the actual movie, which takes place in a semi deserted city, with a handful of actors moving in drab locations, with no soundtrack and minimal dialogues.
I guess the budget was very tight, consequently the result is a lacklustre, tensionless drama, despite the tragic plot.
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