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“Ever since I discovered art, this cell has truly become a prison.” - an inmate in Caesar Must Die
The setting is Rome's Rebibbia Prison; specifically, its maximum-security section, which houses drug traffickers and mafiosi. Theatre director Fabio Cavalli is working with the inmates to stage a performance of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. The notion of art as therapy is given rich currency here as the inmates draw on personal experience to interpret their roles and the play's meanings. Beginning at the end of the triumphant performance, Caesar Must Die then flashes back to the early stages of casting, rehearsals and the prisoners' reactions throughout the process.
Venerable directors Paolo and Vittorio Taviani (Padre Padrone, MIFF 78) return in top form with the gritty and brash Caesar Must Die, a subtle yet gripping exploration of the complex relations between art, life and politics. Shot predominantly in striking black and white, Caesar Must Die won the Golden Bear at the 2012 Berlinale as well as the Academy of Italian Cinema David di Donatello Best Film and Best Director awards.
Screens with The Cricket (Italy, 13 mins).
D/S Paolo Taviani, Vittorio Taviani P Grazia Volpi Dist Palace Films L Italian w/English subtitles TD DCP/2012