Watch Nocturno

Nocturno is a 2020 documentary film directed by Italian filmmaker Gianfranco Rosi. The movie is centered around the lives of people living at the borders of war-torn countries, where violence is a part of everyday life. It is a journey through the darkness of the world that is both heartbreaking and enlightening. The film is divided into four parts, each focusing on a different aspect of conflict. The first part explores the daily routines of a group of young soldiers stationed at the border of Iran and Iraq, where they are tasked with defending the boundary between the two countries. The second part delves into the lives of a group of Syrian civilians who have been forced to flee their country due to the ongoing war. The third part documents the aftermath of a terrorist attack at the Bataclan theatre in Paris, which left 90 people dead. The final part of the film takes us to a psychiatric hospital in Rome, where we witness the daily struggles of patients dealing with mental illness.

Throughout the film, we are exposed to the harsh realities of life in these war-torn areas. We see people who have lost loved ones, who are struggling to survive in harsh conditions, or who are suffering from the psychological scars of trauma. The film captures their emotions and resilience as they navigate their difficult circumstances.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is Rosi's use of visuals. The movie is a beautiful exploration of light and darkness, with stunning footage of sunsets, landscapes, and cityscapes. In one particularly poignant scene, we see a young girl playing a guitar against a backdrop of burning oil wells. The contrast between the beauty of the music and the destruction of the environment is both beautiful and heartbreaking.

The film is also notable for its sound design. The movie is filled with ambient sounds, from the sound of gunfire in the distance to the buzz of flies at a refugee camp. These sounds create a visceral experience for the viewer, immersing them in the world of the film.

While the movie deals with heavy subject matter, it is not without hope. Nocturno explores the beauty that exists in even the darkest of situations. We see people who, despite their circumstances, find moments of joy and hope. In one particularly moving scene, a group of Syrian refugees share a meal and sing together, creating a brief moment of community and connection amid the chaos of their lives.

Overall, Nocturno is a powerful and haunting film that explores the impact of conflict on people's lives. Through stunning visuals and immersive sound design, Gianfranco Rosi creates an unforgettable portrait of the human experience in the face of adversity. The movie is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, even when faced with the darkest of circumstances.