Made In Italy
IFCMade in Italy stands as not only the writing and directing feature-length directorial debut of actor James D'arcy but also, quite poignantly, stars real-life father and son duo Liam Neeson and Micheál Richardson as their two characters navigate their lives coming to terms with each other and the loss of their wife and mother, respectively.
As far as directorial debuts go, James D'arcy's feature is undeniably strong. Keeping it simple on all fronts, D'arcy, instead of showcasing his self-indulgence and ego, showcases his understanding of craft and puts the film and his characters forward before his ego trip. There is very little flash or excessive nature to proceedings. Admitted, some will maintain that the film does not showcase a style or D'arcy's voice behind the camera, however, those critics could not be more wrong. By being restraint, D'arcy concentrates on delivering on his characters and, therefore, screenplay, which in turn elevates what could be argued is a simplistic narrative into an engaging and compelling story.
D'arcy is working with a strong team here. Behind the camera cinematographer Mike Eley showcases Tuscany in all its iconography richness. Not only does it capture the vast expansive intoxication of the film's setting, but captures the claustrophobic and tense nature between the father and son dynamic in an unsubtle but engaging manner.
IFCIn front of the camera is no different. Neeson is as powerful, charismatic and as influential towards the feature as the viewer would imagine. Lindsay Duncan – in a bloated cameo of sorts – offers another small but engaging side to heartbreak and empowerment of tragedy in a supporting role. Relative newcomer Micheál Richardson puts forward a decent performance, also. It is clear that Richardson isn't quite there yet regarding honing in his talents, specifically his emotive range, but nevertheless, working with his father on screen undoubtedly has helped not only his body of work but confidence to give his all. More often than not, Richardson's performance feels as if he is holding something back. To be clear, this is an incredibly personal piece to the father-son duo, and while the young actor's conviction isn't one hundred percent, his commitment to the role is unquestionable.
All in all, while D'Arcy's Made in Italy will not light the world in glory, it is a strong, confident and well-executed feature with strong performances. The result is a wonderfully astute and, at times, a powerful, poignant story. A story that will bring comfort to those suffering with loss but also a beautiful way for the actors to honour their loss in a profoundly enriching and personal fashion.
