Don't Be Bad

"Don't Be Bad" is widely considered Pier Paolo Pasolini's spiritual successor, offering a similar exploration of the Roman underbelly decades later. It depicts a generation grappling with disillusionment and a lack of opportunity in post-Berlusconi Italy, reflecting anxieties surrounding economic stagnation and social decay. The film serves as a commentary on the lost promises and anxieties of a generation facing an uncertain future.

• Dynamic and authentic performances from the two leads, Luca Marinelli and Alessandro Borghi, convincingly portraying the raw intensity of their characters' bond and struggles.
• Gritty and unflinching portrayal of marginalized youth in Ostia, Italy, avoiding romanticization and presenting a stark reality.
• Exploration of complex themes such as friendship, addiction, the search for identity, and the consequences of reckless behavior within a specific societal context.
• The film's fast-paced editing and evocative soundtrack effectively contribute to the frenetic and often disorienting atmosphere of the characters' lives.

Fun Facts

• The film was Italy's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards, but it was not nominated.
• Director Claudio Caligari passed away shortly before the film's release, adding a layer of poignancy to its reception and legacy.