I Have Friends in Heaven

I Have Friends in Heaven is a 2017 Italian film directed by Fabrizio Maria Cortese. The movie stars Antonio Folletto, Rosario Altavilla, and Mariano Belvedere, among others, presenting a heartwarming yet thought-provoking blend of drama, comedy, and calamity.

The film puts Antonio Folletto, a prominent actor in Italian cinema, at center stage in his role as Vincenzo, a small-time criminal living in Naples. Always looking for an easy buck, Vincenzo is everything you'd expect from a local shifty character - he's unpredictable, uncouth, and underhanded. But underneath the rough exterior, Folletto expertly brings out the more tender, human aspects of the character. He gives us a character study of a man who, although may seem like an unlikable rogue to start with, possesses an essentially good heart and has the capacity for change.

Rosario Altavilla plays Don Antonio, an aging local priest with a longstanding relationship with Vincenzo. Being familiar with Vincenzo's patterns of misbehavior, he nonetheless sees the good in him and hopes for his redemption. Despite his serene demeanor, Don Antonio himself carries a resilient spirit and inner strength evident in his selfless dedication to his community and particularly to Vincenzo's betterment.

Mariano Belvedere gives a remarkable performance as Peppino, a young cynic whose life intertwines with Vincenzo's, propelling both of them on an unforeseen journey. Peppino's world-weariness brings a sour note to the otherwise comedic tone of the film. However, this seriousness is well balanced with occasional doses of humor which is cleverly interwoven into his dialogues.

A significant highlight of the film is the on-screen chemistry shared between these diverse characters. The relationship dynamics they depict are genuine, humorous, and often times, profoundly heart-touching.

I Have Friends in Heaven places the viewer in the charming cityscape of Naples, utilising its scenic beauty and rich culture to the fullest. Not only does it contribute to the visual aesthetics of the film, but it also helps in setting the tone for the narrative, offering a rather authentic depiction of the locale. The director Cortese masterfully manages to portray Naples beyond the popular tourist spots, capturing its narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and vibrantly chaotic neighborhoods, all contributing towards creating a vivid backdrop for the story.

To add depth to the setting, the film does not restrict itself to just the scenic beauty of the city but further explores Neapolitan culture and lifestyle. The film's Italian essence is apparent through the clever injection of cultural nuances in its dialogues, costumes, set designs, and even the soundtrack, which is a delightful blend of modern and traditional Italian tunes.

Plot-wise, I Have Friends in Heaven takes the viewer on an unexpected odyssey. It doesn't follow the conventional storyline of a simple neighborhood criminal. Instead, it explores issues of redemption, family, and the potential for change in individuals whom society has given up on. Throughout the film, the audience cannot help but identify with the struggles and growth of a seemingly irredeemable character like Vincenzo as he navigates his way through personal transformation, relationship building, and reckoning with his past.

In conclusion, I Have Friends in Heaven is a touching movie that sketches the perfect blend of humor, warmth, heartache, and it offers timeless lessons about human connection and redemption. Despite an initial impression of being a lighthearted comedy, the film brilliantly explores profound themes that carry an emotional weight. The brilliant performances of the lead actors, distinctive storytelling style, and excellent cinematography contribute towards making this movie a must-watch for admirers of foreign language films, specifically Italian Cinema. You may enter expecting a crime-centered narrative but will leave reflecting on powerful life lessons about redemption, relationships, and the resilience of the human spirit.