The Deported

The Deported is an outrageous and comical film from the year 2009, starring famous performers such as Nicholas Turturro, Talia Shire, and Gary Valentine. The film adroitly plays with the elements of comedy and drama. Directed by Lance Kawas, “The Deported” uses an unusual, yet amusingly comedic premise to deliver a heartfelt message about family, morality, and personal redemption.

Nicholas Turturro, who is renowned for his work in films such as "The Longest Yard," and "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry," leads the ensemble cast of the film. He portrays the character, Gianni DiCarlo, an Italian-American actor of considerable repute who has been typecast in gangster roles due to his ethnic background. Despite his successful Hollywood career, Gianni becomes entangled in an awkward legal situation due to his reckless behavior, namely a bar fight. The fallout leads to him being deported back to his native Italy.

While in Italy, Gianni crosses paths with Talia Shire’s character, Mama Rosa, and her delightful family. Shire, famously known for her roles in iconic films such as "Rocky" and "The Godfather," graces the film with her commanding screen presence as the Italian matriarch. Gary Valentine complements the cast with his impeccable comic timing in a series of humorous and heartwarming scenes.

While Gianni initially views his deportation as a setback, he soon embarks on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. He experiences a culture shock and must grapple with a different way of life, contrary to the Hollywood glamour he has been accustomed to. Moreover, he must also deal with the Mafia who have their eyes set on Mama Rosa’s family. Gianni becomes an unlikely hero, setting out to protect his newfound family from the imminent danger that they face. The film leaves us wondering whether Gianni will be able to succeed or if he will fall back into his old, reckless lifestyle that led him to this predicament?

The Deported uses humor as an efficient tool to navigate and highlight critical issues like stereotyping and the complexities of multicultural identities. It's a comedy of errors that weaves in underlying themes of the importance of family, heritage, and personal redemption. Nicholas Turturro delivers a marvelous performance, making his character’s transformation from a self-absorbed actor to a committed family man, realistic and engaging.

Talia Shire’s superbly supports the film with her excellent portrayal of a warm and family-oriented Italian matriarch. Adding to the fun are the genuine comedic moments provided by the comic relief, Gary Valentine, reminiscing his remarkable performances in "King of Queens" and "Kevin Can Wait." Collectively, the cast further enlivens the whimsical script with their enthusiastic performances.

The Deported offers not just a humorous Mediterranean vacation but a poignant journey into the heart of Italian familial life, stirring up not just laughs but also deeply human emotions.

Situated within the picturesque realm of Italy, the film beautifully captures the scenic landscapes that serve as a serene and captivating backdrop to the unfolding narrative. The audience is treated to a rich, vibrant setting allowing viewers to see, feel, and almost taste the real Italy. The director uses this aesthetic milieu to amplify the sentiment of a man out of his element and trying to find his footing in a foreign land.

The vibrant soundscape, combining classic Italian music with modern western tunes fittingly mirrors the fusion of cultures portrayed in the film. The energetic score lends a unique, lively vibe to this entertaining journey.

The Deported is an enjoyable comedy-drama that takes audiences on a truly entertaining voyage, offering laughter, heartfelt sentiments, and a dash of action. Its exploration of character growth, personal redemption, and socio-cultural clashes, without losing its comedic touch, makes it an impressive hidden gem from 2009.