In the Italian language, the word Il Divo means bluntly ‘the male star’ or ‘male diva’. Within the seven terms that Prime Minister and Christian Democrat leader Giulio Andreotti reigned upon Italy, he took the spotlight politically from the late seventies to the early nineties. Forming during his career a wide range cabinet of people ranging from legislators, cardinals, businessmen and enforcers, Andreotti became a force to be reckoned with.
Guilio Andreotti begins his seventh term as prime Minister, he and his hardliner faction take control of a country reeling from the brazen murders of several high-level bankers, judges and journalists, as well as the kidnapping and assassination of former Prime Minister Aldo Moro. Once suspicion begins to wash over Andreotti and his group are speculated with conspiracy that connects the Mafia, the Vatican and neo-Fascist Masonic Lodge P2 all took part in the murders, he becomes entangled in what becomes “The Trial of the Century”.
Directed by Paolo Sorrentino, Il Divo drew in great interest on the material overall and the powerful performances of Tony Servillo who played the hunched giant of sorts and Anna Bonaiuto as his wife and emotional supporter in Livia Andreotti among many others. Already drawing in critical acclaim, Il Divo was screened previously at the Festival De Cannes, winning the Jury Prize and also being nominated for the coveted Golden Palm. This particular look into Andreotti’s life also caught the attention of the European Film Awards, being nominated for Best Director, Film, Cinematographer & Screenwriter and giving the Best Actor award to Tony Servillo for his performance.
The film has previously been released in other countries and has graced its presence in a very limited release within NY. Jumping into select theaters on June 26th, be sure to check your local listings and see if this will play anywhere in your town.
