Watch A Special Day

A Special Day is a powerful and emotional drama film directed by Ettore Scola. The story is set in Rome in 1938, during the Fascist regime, with Adolf Hitler's visit to Mussolini's Italy. The movie takes place on the day of the historic Nazi rally, where all workers are expected to attend the rally in honor of the German leader. However, because of its theme and plot, the movie was widely interpreted as a commentary on the oppression of homosexuals in post-World War II Italy.

The film is a character study of two people who do not fit in with the crowds. Antonietta (Sophia Loren), a housewife, is left behind when her family goes to attend the Fascist rally at the stadium. She is overworked and exhausted, so decides to take a break from her routine of cooking, cleaning, and taking care of her children. Meanwhile, Gabriele (Marcello Mastroianni) is a homosexual who has lost his job as a radio broadcaster and fears being targeted by the authorities at the rally.

The two meet by coincidence as Gabriele, who lives in the same apartment block as Antonietta, is trying to hang a picture. They almost ignore each other but are eventually drawn to each other as they discover their mutual vulnerability, loneliness, and lack of acceptance by society.

The film explores the themes of loneliness, isolation, and conformity. It paints a picture of Italian life under Fascism, with its social rule, propaganda, and suppression of individuality. The camera work is stunning and helps to create a sense of both vulnerability and intimacy between the characters. We are shown a lonesome Antonietta closing the door on her nosy neighbor, a melancholy Gabriele listening to the children's programme which he can no longer be a part of.

The movie deals with the sensitive topic of homosexuality, and it does so in a way that was incredibly ahead of its time. Gabriele's character is imbued with a sense of empathy and sadness, which makes him incredibly relatable. The audience sees him as a victim of his own choices, living in a country that does not accept him, shut out by professionals, lonely and fearful. We see what his life is like, how he hides his true self, and how he thinks about and sees the world.

Antonietta is another fascinating character who is trapped in traditional gender roles. She is a housewife whose every day consists of preparing meals, cleaning, doing laundry and looking after her children. She cares for her family, but her hard work goes unappreciated. Her husband is vain, her judgmental neighbors call her "simpatica," but otherwise, she is alone. We watch as Antonietta and Gabriele eventually come together and recognize that they are not alone, that they have found each other.

One of the most outstanding features of A Special Day is the real setting, which adds to the realism and the overall atmosphere of the film. The movie is set in 1938 Rome and takes place in the apartment building where Antonietta lives. The production design is outstanding, bringing the apartment building to life with its simplicity and believability.

Overall, A Special Day is a must-see film that transcends its political and social background. The movie is one of the best portrayals of post-World War II Italy, its social rules, its treatment of homosexuality, and its suppression of individuality. The film is breathtakingly poignant, empathetic, and ultimately heart-wrenching. The audience cannot help but feel emotionally invested in the characters' lives, struggles and hopes. The film is a masterpiece of Italian cinema, with a poignant ending, that will stay with the viewer for a long time after watching it.