Leo Tolstoy's epic novel "Resurrection" needed a grandiose production to make justice to the larger than life narrative to come alive. Thanks to Italian Paolo and Vittorio Taviani, the work was made as a mini-series for Italian television. Made in two parts, the novel got an opulent production, as befitting the brothers cinematic sense of presenting unusual fare in whatever endeavor they decide to bring to the screen.
The lives of Prince Dimitri Necklivdov and the poor peasant girl Katiuscia Maslova, takes center stage in this production shot on location in Russia and Eastern Europe. The prince, part of a noble family, had a bright future as an officer in the army, as well as being socially prominent, the object of an ambitious young woman who wanted him as a husband.
Dimitri is consumed by the passion he felt for the beautiful young woman from a different world and class than him. Because of his reckless relationship with Katiuscia, he disgraced the poor girl, who ended up in a brothel, where a crime is committed and she is wrongly accused for being the murderess. When Dimitri finds her again, she is about to go on trial for a crime she did not commit. Dimitri's guilt makes him stay by the beloved woman, trying to prove her innocence.
Beautifully staged by the Tavianis, the film does justice to the Tolstoy novel. Stefania Rocca is perfect as Katiuscia. Timothy Peach makes justice to his Dimitri. The directors got an excellent ensemble acting from the large cast, too many to single out. Franco Di Giacomo's magnificent cinematography enhances the film. The musical score was composed by Nicola Piovani.
Another highlight in the Taviani brothers body of work.
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