Everybody knows the story of Pinocchio. In fact, Carlo Collodi’s 19th century novel is one of the most popular and adapted stories in history and is the most widely translated non-religious book in the world today. A film adaptation by director Matteo Garrone, now presents this iconic classic in a fantastical new light.
“Pinocchio’s distinctive pointy-nosed face is everywhere and has become the face of Italy’s spirit and way of life. His adventures have reached every realm of Italian language and culture. Throughout the world, everyone knows who Pinocchio is,” explains the director. So, why another PINOCCHIO?
“PINOCCHIO is a dream of mine that goes back in time, back to when I was a child. On my desk I still have my own personal Pinocchio ‘story-board’ that I drew and coloured in when I was a kid, and which is one of my most cherished mementos. The love I feel for Pinocchio isn’t love at first sight. It’s a character I have always been drawn to.���
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PINOCCHIO sticks closely to the authentic roots of the story; that of a lonely carpenter who creates a boy out of wood. What ensues when the boy magically springs to life and runs away from his maker is a series of increasingly surreal adventures.
As Pinocchio travels across the countryside he meets a variety of colourful and sometimes grotesque characters. He is easily led astray and, he tumbles from one misadventure to another.
Academy Award-winning actor Roberto Benigni delivers a warm and melancholic performance as Geppetto opposite young Federico Ielapi’s Pinocchio. Marine Vacth plays Pinocchio’s loyal friend, the Fairy, who tries to make him see that his dream of becoming a real boy can never come true until he changes his ways.
While the film includes all the familiar and expected elements, such as Pinocchio’s growing nose and a talking cricket, it is presented in an unexpected way. The film’s rich imagery and beautifully eerie feel is supported by the work of director of photography Nicolai Brüel, composer Dario Marianelli, the visual effects of One of Us, and two-time Oscar winner Mark Coulier, whose stunning prosthetics bring the various characters to life.
PINOCCHIO is spellbinding. Set in stunning Italian locations, this live action interpretation offers a rich fantasy world of mystery and wonder and is perfect for those wanting something a little different to the famous Disney version. The film has an age restriction of 10-12PG H V.
The film is a Made in Italy project with the support of the Ministry of Cultural Heritage and Activities (MiBAC), in collaboration with Istituto Luce Cinecittà.
PINOCCHIO is distributed by Filmfinity (Pty) Ltd. and will be released in South African cinemas on 1 January 2021.
Watch the trailer here: