L’ora legale (2017) Movie Review: A Satirical Take on Italian Politics and Where to Watch Online
Released in 2017, L’ora legale (The Legal Hour) is an Italian political satire directed by Ficarra and Picone. The film is a follow-up to their earlier hit Andiamo a quel paese and continues their tradition of combining humor with social commentary. L’ora legale provides a sharp and witty examination of Italian politics and the public’s response to corruption and inefficiency.
Set in a fictional Sicilian town, the film explores the impact of a new, reformist mayor on a community that has long been accustomed to corruption and mismanagement. Through a blend of satire and comedy, L’ora legale tackles serious political issues while delivering an entertaining and thought-provoking experience.
For those interested in watching this Italian comedy, we’ll also provide information on where to stream or purchase L’ora legale online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Town’s Struggle with Change
L’ora legale centers on a fictional Sicilian town where politics have always been marred by corruption and inefficiency. The local government is known for its questionable practices, and the town’s residents have grown accustomed to a lack of accountability.
The story begins when a new mayor, who is committed to reform and transparency, takes office. His arrival is met with skepticism and resistance from both the town’s residents and the entrenched political establishment. The film follows the comedic and often absurd consequences of his attempts to introduce changes and challenge the status quo.
As the new mayor implements various reforms, he encounters a series of humorous and frustrating obstacles. The film highlights the clash between idealism and practicality, as well as the difficulties of navigating entrenched political corruption.
Through its satirical lens, L’ora legale examines the complexities of political reform and the ways in which individuals and institutions resist change. The film combines witty dialogue, physical comedy, and sharp social commentary to create a compelling narrative.
Themes: Political Satire, Corruption, and Reform
L’ora legale is a satirical exploration of political corruption and the challenges of reform. The film uses humor to critique the inefficiencies and dishonesty prevalent in Italian politics, reflecting broader themes of accountability and civic responsibility.
The theme of corruption is central to the film, as it portrays a community where political dishonesty has become the norm. The arrival of a reformist mayor represents a challenge to this status quo, highlighting the difficulties of introducing change in a system resistant to new ideas.
Reform is another key theme, as the film explores the complexities of implementing political changes in a deeply entrenched system. The comedic elements of the film underscore the often absurd nature of the obstacles faced by those seeking to bring about meaningful reform.
L’ora legale also touches on themes of public perception and resistance to change. The film examines how individuals and institutions respond to efforts at improvement and the ways in which entrenched interests can hinder progress.
Cast and Performances: Comedic Talent and Satirical Depth
The cast of L’ora legale delivers strong performances that enhance the film’s comedic and satirical elements:
- Ficarra and Picone, who also directed the film, star as the main characters. Their performances bring a blend of humor and depth to their roles, capturing the absurdities of the political situation while also adding emotional resonance.
- Paolo Belli appears as the new mayor, embodying the idealistic and reformist spirit of the character. Belli’s performance adds both humor and sincerity to the role, balancing the comedic and serious aspects of the story.
- Other notable performances come from Angela Finocchiaro, Dario Aita, and Fabio De Luigi, each contributing to the film’s ensemble dynamic. Their performances add to the film’s exploration of political and social themes.
The ensemble cast’s chemistry and comedic timing are integral to the film’s success, creating a dynamic and engaging portrayal of political and social issues.
Visuals and Direction: A Sharp and Engaging Style
Ficarra and Picone’s direction in L’ora legale is characterized by a sharp and engaging style that complements the film’s satirical tone. The directors effectively use humor and satire to highlight the absurdities of political corruption and reform.
The film’s cinematography, by Gianfilippo Corticelli, captures the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the fictional town. The visual style enhances the comedic and dramatic elements of the story, creating a dynamic and entertaining experience.
The soundtrack of the film features a mix of lively and engaging music that complements the film’s tone and adds to its overall enjoyment. The music helps to underscore the comedic and satirical moments, enhancing the film’s appeal.
Where to Watch L’ora legale Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching L’ora legale, here’s where you can find it online:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video
- L’ora legale is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, while purchasing the film costs around $12.99. The film is available in HD.
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- You can rent L’ora legale for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99 on Apple TV. The film is available in HD and 4K UHD formats.
- Google Play Movies
- On Google Play Movies, L’ora legale is available for rent ($3.99) or purchase ($12.99). The film is offered in HD.
- Vudu
- Vudu offers L’ora legale for rent at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99. Vudu provides high-quality streaming options, including HDX formats.
- YouTube Movies
- L’ora legale can also be rented or purchased on YouTube Movies. Rental prices start at $3.99, and purchasing the film costs around $12.99. The film is available in HD.
Conclusion: Why L’ora legale Is a Must-Watch
L’ora legale is a clever and entertaining satire that provides a humorous yet insightful look at Italian politics. With its blend of comedy and social commentary, the film offers a unique perspective on the challenges of political reform and the complexities of navigating a corrupt system.
The performances by Ficarra and Picone, along with the direction and visual style, create a film that balances humor with a thoughtful critique of political issues. Whether you’re interested in political satire or simply looking for an engaging comedy, L’ora legale is a film that delivers both laughs and meaningful commentary.
For those interested in this Italian comedy, L’ora legale is accessible through various streaming and rental options. Its sharp wit and engaging storyline make it a film worth watching for fans of satire and political humor.
