Hidden Away
Hidden Away

Movie spotlight

Hidden Away

2020
Movie
120 min
Italian

The film tackles the life journey of Toni Ligabue, visionary naïf painter who used to draw tigers, lions and jaguars while living among the poplar trees of the boundless Po valley. A harsh life that is a fairy tale too, as a lonely and marginalized kid finds redemption in his art, and a way to express himself and be admired by the world.

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic77/100
Google Users92%
Director: Giorgio DirittiGenres: Drama, Biography

Plot Summary

This biographical drama chronicles the life of Italian painter Antonio Ligabue, focusing on his tumultuous early years and artistic struggles. Despite being an outcast and institutionalized multiple times, Ligabue's raw talent and unique artistic vision eventually led him to discover himself and his place in the art world. The film explores his isolated existence, his passionate connection with nature and animals, and his journey towards recognition.

Critical Reception

"Hidden Away" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its sensitive portrayal of the artist's life and Elio Germano's powerful performance. The film was lauded for its atmospheric direction and its ability to capture the emotional depth of Ligabue's isolated and often difficult existence. Audience reception was also largely favorable, appreciating the film's artistic merit and its moving narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its poignant and empathetic exploration of an artist's life.

  • Elio Germano's performance as Antonio Ligabue is a standout, delivering a raw and compelling portrayal.

  • The film's visual style and atmospheric direction effectively convey the protagonist's inner world and isolation.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's emotional depth and the compelling performance by the lead actor. Many found the story of Ligabue's struggle and eventual artistic success to be inspiring and moving.

Awards & Accolades

Won the Silver Bear for Best Actor (Elio Germano) at the 70th Berlin International Film Festival and received multiple awards at the Nastri d'Argento (Italian Film Critics Awards), including Best Actor and Best Director.

Fun Fact

The film was shot in the Swiss canton of Graubünden, where Antonio Ligabue spent a significant part of his childhood and youth.

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