“It’s just a trick.” This episode, we dive into Paolo Sorrentino’s award-winning epic The Great Beauty (La grande bellezza), a window into contemporary Rome through the eyes of writer Jep Gambardella (Toni Servillo). This sprawling work examines not just Roman high society, but also broader themes of artistry, beauty, and experiences both individual and collective.

Links:

• Criterion Collection: The Great Beauty | Italian Neorealism | Miracle in Milan
• Cinecitta’ News: New 4K restorations of Antonioni films
• Netflix: The Hand of God
• Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

This episode features the following music excerpts from the film’s soundtrack:

• “Far l’amore” by Bob Sinclar & Raffaella Carra’
• “More Than Scarlet” by Decoder Ring
• “Water From the Same Source” by Rachel’s
• “The Beatitudes” by Kronos Quartet