Figaro-ci, Figaro-là (1972)

Film Overview
"Figaro-ci, Figaro-là" is a 1972 Italian tv film by director Eduardo de Filippo. The work becomes part of the cycle of "Lives of the excellent" and is devoted to the life of the Italian composer Gioachino Rossini. This tv film that masterfully intertwined drama and music was based on the play of the very same name by de Filippo.

Plot Summary
"Figaro-ci, Figaro-là" narrates a fictional day in the life of world-renowned author Gioachino Rossini. The motion picture is centered around Gioachino Rossini's (played by Eduardo de Filippo) composer block that lasted for twenty years from 1829 till his death in 1868. Throughout this time, the genius stopped composing music after his opera "William Tell". The film begins on one fine morning when he awakens and popular tunes originating from a street organ under his window motivate him.

The music isn't originally made up by Rossini but it's by a simple street artist, Luigi Ricci, played by Tecla Scarano. Struck by the tunes, Rossini chooses to meet the musician and welcomes him over for lunch. At the exact same time, he also prepares to take the scores and incorporate them into his compositions.

Charismatic Characters
The protagonist, Rossini, is portrayed as a conflicted person with high standards for music. He is unable to overcome the mental block that stopped him from writing music. Luigi Ricci, on the other hand, is an ignorant street musician who fails to see the genius in his productions. This contrast adds a layer of comical touch to the story.

Styles and Commentary
"Figaro-ci, Figaro-là" is a subtle commentary on the creative block that artists deal with. It exhibits the struggles of a well-acclaimed composer, drowning in creativity yet parched for production. This special narrative is a manifestation of how the process of development is often stalled, not for absence of talent, but due to a frustrating sense of creative aspiration. The movie likewise checks out the theme of artistic credibility, ownership, and plagiarism. It presents a deeper moral problem through the character of Rossini as he ponders appropriating Ricci's music.

Creative Approach and Cinematic Techniques
The film is extremely theatrical in its discussion, true to its origin from a stage play. It utilizes several drama methods consisting of humor, dialogues, and character interactions. The motion picture effectively blends drama, comedy, and music, developing an unique and captivating atmosphere. Musical set pieces are used efficiently throughout the movie, either as background score characters perform or as efficiency pieces encapsulating the story.

In conclusion, "Figaro-ci, Figaro-là" is an engaging tv film that beautifully catches a day in the life of well known composer Gioachino Rossini. At its heart, it's a reflective piece about artistry, ownership, and the often tortuous act of creation. The nuanced performances and clever script make it well worth an expect fans of music, drama, and Italian movie theater.

Top Cast

  • Isabelle Huppert (small)
    Isabelle Huppert
    Pauline
  • Marie-Christine Barrault (small)
    Marie-Christine Barrault
    Julie
  • Yves Rénier (small)
    Yves Rénier
    Gudin
  • Alexandre Rignault (small)
    Alexandre Rignault
    Caron
  • Jean-François Poron (small)
    Jean-François Poron
    Beaumarchais
  • Edmond Beauchamp
    Paris-Duverney
  • Jacques Jansen
    Le prince de Conti
  • André Oumansky (small)
    André Oumansky
    Sartines
  • Jacques Bernard
    La Blache
  • Michèle André
    Mme Franquet
  • Pierre Nègre
    Franquet