Uomini e no

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.