The Conformist

In Fascist Italy, Marcello Clerici, a susceptible intellectual, attempts to assassinate his former professor, an anti-fascist exile in Paris. He joins the secret police as a favor to his friend Manganiello, a dedicated fascist, and travels to Paris with his beautiful, shallow wife, Giulia. There, Marcello becomes entangled with a former student of his professor, an alluring woman named Lino. His desperate attempts to conform to the fascist regime lead to a series of betrayals and a descent into moral ambiguity.

Upon its release and in subsequent decades, 'The Conformist' has been lauded by critics as a masterpiece of political cinema and visual artistry. Its stunning cinematography, exploration of fascism, and psychological depth have cemented its status as a highly influential film. While some found its narrative dense, the overwhelming consensus praises its aesthetic brilliance and thematic power.

• Praised for its breathtaking visual style and cinematography.

• Acclaimed for its profound exploration of conformity, fascism, and moral compromise.

• Recognized for Bernardo Bertolucci's masterful direction and evocative storytelling.

Google audience: Audiences consistently praise 'The Conformist' for its stunning visual beauty and artistic merit. Many highlight its thought-provoking examination of complex political themes and psychological depth, appreciating its lasting impact and memorable aesthetic.

Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay. Won numerous awards internationally, including the Golden Globe for Best Foreign-Language Film and multiple David di Donatello Awards.

The iconic scene where Marcello and Giulia walk through a forest of lush, green foliage was filmed in a studio using artificial plants, with smoke machines creating the misty atmosphere. This deliberate artifice contributes to the film's dreamlike and symbolic quality.