Lavazza IncluCity Festival Review “The Eight Mountains”

Le Otto Montagne (The Eight Mountains) is a captivating and multi-faceted character-driven drama directed by the brilliant duo of Felix van Groeningen and Charlotte Vandermeersch. Based on Paolo Cognetti’s acclaimed Italian novel, this film takes audiences on an unforgettable journey that leaves them breathless and inspired. It beautifully juxtaposes the innocence of boyhood and childhood dreams with the harsh realities of life, while also exploring delicate moments of love, transcendence, and hope. The Italian film is subtitled in English.

At its core, this coming-of-age tale revolves around the extraordinary bond between childhood friends Bruno and Pietro, who come from vastly different family backgrounds. Set in the picturesque town of Grana, nestled in the majestic Italian Alps, the film presents a captivating bromance that embodies the essence of Italian charm. It also sheds a vibrant light on post-modern male masculinity against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Alps.

Bruno, abandoned by his parents, finds solace in Grana among his extended family, while Pietro arrives as a curious tourist from Turin. Guided by a seamless linear storyline with elliptical transitions, their enduring friendship solidifies against the backdrop of the breathtaking Italian Alps. We witness their transformation from rambunctious 11-year-old boys to 16-year-old teenagers shaped by their adolescence, and eventually to 31-year-old adults. Grana and the Italian Alps serve as the evocative canvas against which their coming-of-age stories unfold, as they grapple with their personal journeys and come to terms with the trajectory of their lives. Touching scenes, from their childhood memories in the Italian Alps to their restoration of an abandoned farmhouse nestled in the mountains and Pietro’s act of draping the farmhouse in Buddhist prayer flags to carry away positive intentions, add depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the visually stunning cinematography, which weaves together numerous breathtaking elements to create an immersive experience. The film not only captures the majestic beauty of the Italian Alps but also incorporates the allure of the Himalayas. Through this masterful cinematography, the boundaries between boyhood dreams and the stark realities of life blur, resulting in a poignant exploration of identity, love, and loss.

As the title suggests, “The Eight Mountains” draws upon esoteric Buddhist concepts, thoughts, and practices, such as sky burials, which act as recurring motifs throughout the latter part of the film. It skillfully showcases how Buddhist philosophy has permeated Western societies, shedding light on alternative paths to self-discovery and existence. Within the broader context of a macho society, the movie offers an intimate portrait of two resolute men who rely on their intellect and strength to pursue their individual passions. Their profound decisions and pursuit of self-determination underscore the impermanence of life itself and the fragility of relationships. The film also raises intriguing questions about representation by imagining what would have transpired if it had featured two female protagonists or two men from the 2SLGBTQ+ community, further exploring the profound depths of their journeys.

“The Eight Mountains” boasts exceptional performances from Luca Marinelli, who portrays the adult Pietro, and Alessandro Borghi, who brings the adult Bruno to life. Both actors deliver nuanced, poignant, and deeply sympathetic portrayals, adding a layer of bittersweetness to this cinematic gem that mirrors the bitter and sweet moments of life. The supporting cast also delivers stellar performances, providing a meaningful backdrop to the bond between the two friends. With identity politics as its thematic anchor, “The Eight Mountains” unfolds against the backdrop of the magnificent Italian Alps, captivating audiences with its profound exploration of self-discovery.

As an aficionado of Italian cinema, I found “The Eight Mountains” to be a truly resonant experience. It masterfully grapples with existential questions, delving into the very meaning of life itself. Bruno’s steadfast adherence to his sense of self, rooted in his family history, and Pietro’s more unconventional path, which resonates with North American audiences, contribute to the film’s beautifully crafted narrative. The film immerses us in the tale of friendship between two boys from disparate backgrounds, each forging their distinct path in life as circumstances take them. With a thoughtful soundtrack and breathtaking landscapes, it effortlessly navigates the complex landscape of identity politics against the stunning backdrop of the Italian Alps and the Himalayas. The film treats us to awe-inspiring aerial shots and sweeping wide-angle views of the Italian Alps, leaving us spellbound by their grandeur. If you’re a fan of Luca Marinelli and/or Alessandro Borghi, their exceptional performances will undoubtedly please you. And if you appreciate beautiful cinematography, you will be rewarded abundantly.

Don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this well-crafted, award-winning gem of a film. Experience the magic of “The Eight Mountains” for yourself. It’s a cinematic journey you won’t soon forget.

Watch the trailer for The Eight Mountains below

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