Rocco and His Brothers
Director: Luchino Visconti
Year Released: 1960
Rating: 2.0
What's the big ruckus all about? I'm starting to be the only outcast when it comes to Visconti: I find myself utterly consumed by his "lesser pictures" (Death in Venice and Ludwig), relishing their camp and ridiculousness, and here, with one of his most respected (if not 'the' most respected) picture, not caring much. I think it comes down to a combination of his approach and my reading of the material: Visconti's dramas (like Senso) are so self-absorbed and pretentious that his naturally flamboyant approach to melodrama (is the mother in Rocco not one of the most irritating characters you've ever seen?) doesn't work with what (I feel) should be restrained mood. The further I got into Ludwig, the more intrigued I was (its camp appeal and large-scale weirdness contributed to my interest) - Rocco, on the other hand, is a glorified soap opera that is too slow to get into, with acting that never stops going over the top.
