L ultima volta che siamo stati bambini ( 2023 )

The Last Time We Were Children (L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini) - A Deep Dive

“L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini” (The Last Time We Were Children), a 2023 Italian film directed by Claudio Bisio, marks his directorial debut and presents a poignant and bittersweet tale set against the backdrop of World War II Italy. More than just a historical drama, the film explores themes of innocence lost, the enduring power of friendship, and the devastating impact of war on the lives of ordinary people, especially children. The movie follows the story of four very different children - Cosimo, Italo, Vanda, and Riccardo – whose lives become intertwined after the disappearance of a young Jewish boy, David. Their quest to find him forces them to confront the harsh realities of a world rapidly descending into darkness, stripping away their naivete and forging an unbreakable bond.

Synopsis and Narrative Structure

The film opens in 1943 Rome, where the war is already casting a long shadow. We are introduced to our protagonists: Cosimo, a mischievous and adventurous boy from a wealthy family; Italo, a shy and pious child raised in a strict religious household; Vanda, a fiery and resourceful girl living in a working-class neighborhood; and Riccardo, a brave and street-smart boy from a humble background. Despite their different social strata and personalities, the children share a carefree existence, filled with games, laughter, and the simple joys of childhood.

Their idyllic world is shattered when David, a young Jewish boy, disappears during a Nazi raid. Driven by a sense of justice and loyalty, the four friends embark on a perilous journey to find him. They navigate the treacherous streets of wartime Rome, encountering both kindness and cruelty along the way. Their search leads them to the Italian countryside, where they face even greater dangers, including encounters with Nazi soldiers and partisan groups. As they delve deeper into their search, the children are forced to confront the horrors of war and the prejudices that divide their society. They witness violence, betrayal, and loss, experiences that irrevocably alter their perspectives and force them to grow up much faster than they should. Through it all, their friendship remains their strongest weapon, providing them with the courage and resilience they need to persevere.

The narrative unfolds with a delicate balance between the lightheartedness of childhood and the grim realities of war. Bisio masterfully juxtaposes moments of innocent play with scenes of intense drama, creating a powerful emotional impact. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the children's world and to connect with their struggles. The story is told primarily from the children's perspectives, which lends it a sense of authenticity and immediacy. We see the world through their eyes, experiencing their fears, their hopes, and their unwavering determination.

Character Analysis

The strength of “L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini” lies in its well-developed and relatable characters. Each of the four protagonists represents a different aspect of childhood innocence and resilience.

Cosimo

Cosimo, the privileged boy, initially seems shielded from the harsh realities of the world. He is accustomed to comfort and security, but his adventurous spirit and strong sense of justice drive him to join the search for David. His sheltered upbringing clashes with the brutality he encounters, forcing him to confront the privileges he has always taken for granted. Cosimo's journey is one of awakening, as he learns to appreciate the value of human connection and the importance of standing up for what is right.

Italo

Italo, the devout child, is characterized by his unwavering faith and his strong moral compass. He is initially hesitant to participate in the search, fearing the potential dangers. However, his compassion for David and his desire to do good ultimately compel him to overcome his fears. Italo's religious beliefs provide him with a source of strength and comfort in the face of adversity. His journey is one of faith tested, as he grapples with the moral complexities of war and the apparent absence of God in a world filled with suffering.

Vanda

Vanda, the resourceful and independent girl, is the most street-smart of the group. She has learned to fend for herself in a world that offers her little protection. Vanda's resilience and pragmatism are essential to the children's survival. She is not afraid to speak her mind or to take risks, making her a natural leader. Vanda's journey is one of empowerment, as she discovers her own strength and her ability to make a difference in a world that tries to silence her.

Riccardo

Riccardo, the brave and loyal friend, is the most grounded of the group. He comes from a working-class background and understands the struggles of ordinary people. Riccardo is fiercely protective of his friends and willing to put himself in danger to help them. His loyalty and courage are unwavering throughout the film. Riccardo's journey is one of self-sacrifice, as he learns to prioritize the needs of others over his own desires.

The supporting characters also play crucial roles in shaping the narrative. David, the missing Jewish boy, represents the vulnerability of innocent victims of war. The adults the children encounter – some helpful, some harmful – serve as reflections of the moral complexities of the time, illustrating the spectrum of human behavior under pressure.

Themes and Motifs

“L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini” explores several powerful themes that resonate beyond its historical setting.

Loss of Innocence

The most prominent theme is the loss of innocence. The film depicts how the horrors of war can prematurely strip away the naivete of childhood, forcing children to confront harsh realities and make difficult choices. The children's journey to find David is a metaphor for their own loss of innocence, as they witness violence, betrayal, and death. However, even in the face of such darkness, they manage to retain a glimmer of hope and a sense of wonder.

Friendship and Loyalty

Friendship and loyalty are central to the film's narrative. The bond between the four children is their strongest weapon, providing them with the courage and resilience they need to overcome the challenges they face. Their friendship transcends social barriers and individual differences, demonstrating the power of human connection in times of adversity. The children's unwavering loyalty to each other and to David is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.

The Impact of War on Civilians

The film also sheds light on the devastating impact of war on civilians, particularly children. It portrays the hardships faced by ordinary people living under Nazi occupation, including food shortages, constant fear, and the threat of violence. The children's search for David highlights the vulnerability of Jewish people during the Holocaust and the importance of remembering the victims of this tragic period in history.

The Power of Hope

Despite the bleak backdrop of war, the film also offers a message of hope. The children's unwavering determination to find David and their belief in the possibility of a better future serve as a beacon of light in the darkness. Their journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope to overcome even the most daunting challenges.

Visual Style and Cinematography

The film's visual style is characterized by its realistic and evocative portrayal of wartime Rome and the Italian countryside. The cinematography captures the beauty of the landscape while also conveying the sense of decay and destruction caused by the war. The use of natural lighting and muted colors creates a somber and reflective atmosphere. The film's production design is meticulous, accurately recreating the look and feel of 1940s Italy. The costumes and set pieces are authentic and contribute to the film's overall sense of realism.

Direction and Acting

Claudio Bisio's directorial debut is impressive, demonstrating his ability to craft a compelling and emotionally resonant narrative. He effectively guides the young actors, eliciting nuanced and believable performances. Bisio's direction is sensitive and respectful, allowing the story to unfold organically without resorting to melodrama. The performances of the child actors are particularly noteworthy. They bring a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to their roles, making the audience deeply invested in their journey. The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, adding depth and complexity to the film's characters.

Reception and Critical Acclaim

“L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini” has been generally well-received by critics and audiences alike. It has been praised for its compelling storyline, its well-developed characters, its powerful themes, and its strong performances. Some critics have compared it to other classic films about childhood and war, such as “The Bicycle Thief” and “Au Revoir les Enfants.” The film has also been recognized for its historical accuracy and its sensitive portrayal of the Holocaust. While some have found the ending slightly sentimental, the overall consensus is that “L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini” is a moving and thought-provoking film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll. The film's success lies in its ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level, reminding us of the importance of empathy, compassion, and hope in a world often marked by violence and injustice.

Comparison Table of Main Characters

Thematic Analysis Table

Summary and Conclusion

“L'ultima volta che siamo stati bambini” is a beautifully crafted and deeply moving film that explores the complexities of childhood, friendship, and war. Claudio Bisio's directorial debut is a testament to his talent and sensitivity as a storyteller. The film's compelling narrative, well-developed characters, and powerful themes resonate long after the credits roll. By telling the story from the perspective of children, Bisio offers a unique and poignant perspective on the horrors of war and the enduring power of hope. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, compassion, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a film that deserves to be seen and appreciated for its artistic merit and its profound message.