My Brother Is an Only Child

PËRMBLEDHJE

Two brothers find themselves on opposing sides of the political spectrum in Daniele Luchetti's deft, funny examination of Italy's recent past. The film is set in Mussolini's purpose-built town of Latina in the 1960s and 70s, with troublesome younger brother Accio (Elio Germano) returning home after being expelled from his seminary. He becomes involved with a local fascist group - only to learn the hard way that his party is not what it seems. Meanwhile, his older brother and family favourite Manrico (Riccardo Scamarcio) is a committed left-wing activist. The domestic and political conflicts that follow could have made for heavy-handed drama, but Luchetti's breezy direction and some beautifully balanced performances make us understand and care about these characters - even if we don't like them. The soundtrack's use of nifty Italian pop songs of the period combines with costumes, location and set design to create a knowing and surprisingly entertaining look at a troubled era in the country's history.