Weak script mars a fine movie

It took director and co-script-writer Fulvio Bernasconi four years to come up with a satisfying draft of the script – at least, that is what he claimed at Locarno where the film was showcased. He may be satisfied but the script appears to be the weakest link in this film about a 30-year-old fighter, Mike (Michele Venitucci), who dreams of making it big as boxer.

Set in Trieste (north-eastern Italy), the film recounts Mike’s unsuccessful attempts to become famous. After losing consistently, he falls back on his sister Anna (Maya Sansa) for support. But Anna has a difficult time doing so and Mike starts falling for the allure of illegal fistfights to keep himself going. Mike soon finds that his life is no longer under his control. Everything seems to be falling apart for him.

It’s an interesting story, one that could have been gripping. For a film that details illegal fighting, there has to be pulverising energy and sharp-edged dynamism fuelling the narrative. But Bernasconi prefers a cold, unimaginative tone and an unflattering momentum to tell this bitter story.

As a consequence there’s just no edge to it. There is no emotional connect with the character. The editing is quite crisp, the cinematography is visually stunning and Michele Venitucci’s performance as Mike is worthy of praise.

But the cliché-ridden script, the stereotypes and the lacklustre treatment, though, nullify the overall experience to one that is merely interesting rather than exhilarating.

Out of Bounds
(Fuori Dalle Corde/Italian)
Cast:  Michele Venitucci, Maya Sansa, Juan Pablo Ogalde, Vili Matula, Claudio Misculin
Director: Fulvio Bernasconi
Rating: ***