They Call Me Jeeg
They Call Me Jeeg

They Call Me Jeeg

2016Movie112 minItalian

Exposed to radioactive waste, small-time crook Enzo gains super-strength. A misanthropic, introverted brute, he uses his powers for personal gain until he meets Alessia, a mentally ill girl who believes Enzo is the hero from her favorite anime, Steel Jeeg.

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Insights

IMDb6.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic76/100
Google Users86%
Director: Gabriele MainettiGenres: Action, Sci-Fi, Crime, Comedy

Plot Summary

Enzo Ceccotti, a small-time thief living in Rome, gains superpowers after an accident involving toxic waste. Initially using his newfound abilities for petty crime, he is drawn into a larger conflict when he encounters Fabio Breccia, a dangerous crime lord who calls himself "The Gypsy". Enzo, now adopting the moniker "Jeeg Robot", must decide whether to embrace his heroic potential and protect the city from escalating violence.

Critical Reception

They Call Me Jeeg was met with widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its originality, gritty realism, and subversion of superhero tropes. Critics praised its blend of dark humor, intense action, and compelling character development, establishing it as a standout in the Italian cinema landscape. Audiences also responded positively, appreciating its unique take on the superhero genre.

What Reviewers Say

  • A refreshingly gritty and original take on the superhero genre, blending action with dark humor.
  • Praised for its compelling characters and strong performances, especially from Claudio Santamaria.
  • Lauded for its unique setting and its ability to subvert typical superhero movie clichés.

Google audience: Google users largely applauded the film's originality and its departure from conventional superhero narratives, highlighting the gritty realism and strong performances. Many appreciated the blend of action and dark comedy, with some noting it as one of the best Italian films in recent years.

Awards & Accolades

Won 7 David di Donatello Awards, including Best New Director and Best Actor, out of 17 nominations. Nominated for 7 Nastri d'Argento Awards, winning Best Actor. Received critical acclaim at various international film festivals.

Fun Fact

Director Gabriele Mainetti initially envisioned the film as an animated project before deciding to adapt it into a live-action feature, drawing inspiration from classic Italian 'fumetti' (comic books) and Japanese mecha anime.

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