Watch Il Postino aka The Postman
- 1994
- 113 hr
Il Postino, also known as The Postman, is a heart-warming film that was released in 1994. Directed by Michael Radford, the movie is based on a novel by Antonio Skármeta titled Ardiente Paciencia. The film is set in the 1950s on the beautiful island of Cápra, located off the coast of Italy. The story follows Mario Ruoppolo (played by Massimo Troisi), a young man who is hired as a postman by the town's only post office. Mario is a somewhat simple-minded individual who struggles to make ends meet. He dreams of finding a job that could make him truly happy, and his wish seems to be fulfilled when he begins to deliver mail to Chilean poet Pablo Neruda (played by Philippe Noiret), who is living in self-exile on the island.
As Mario becomes more familiar with Neruda's work and personality, he becomes increasingly fascinated by the poet's unique way of seeing the world. Neruda, a charismatic figure, teaches Mario about the power of poetry and the importance of self-expression. The two men develop a close bond that is rooted in their love of language, and Mario begins to transform as a result of Neruda's influence.
Mario is also inspired by his love for a beautiful woman named Beatrice (played by Maria Grazia Cucinotta), and he decides to pursue her despite the fact that she is already engaged to be married. The love story between Mario and Beatrice is interwoven with the story of his growing friendship with Neruda, and the two themes eventually converge in a poignant, unforgettable finale.
One of the most striking things about Il Postino is its beautiful cinematography. The island of Cáprai is captured in all its glory, with stunning vistas of the sea and the rugged coastline. The movie also features a beautiful classical music score, composed by Luis Enriquez Bacalov, that perfectly complements the film's gentle tone.
But it is the performances of Troisi and Noiret that really make Il Postino such a special film. Troisi pours his soul into the role of Mario, capturing the character's insecurities and aspirations with great sensitivity. Noiret is equally superb as the worldly-wise poet, bringing a sense of warmth and wisdom to the film that is captivating.
The dialogue in Il Postino is witty and often very funny. Troisi's character, in particular, has a knack for just the right kind of comedic timing that injects a lightheartedness into the film without detracting from its overall emotional impact. The writing is a particular strength of the film, and it will appeal to anyone who appreciates the power of words and their ability to move and inspire us.
Above all, Il Postino is a celebration of love in all its forms. It is a film about the transformative power of art, the importance of self-expression, and the allure of the human heart. This tender and unforgettable movie is perfect for anyone who wants to be swept away by a powerful story of love and friendship.