LEOPARD (1963)

Leopard is a grandiose epic film based on the Sicilian aristocrat Giuseppe Tomasi Di Lampedusa's novel that he wrote in respect to his grandfather.  The director Luchino Visconti, who was born as count, knew what kind of character was needed for the main part as Prince Don Fabrizio Salina as the film displays strong aristocratic conduct and value.  Burt Lancaster was chosen to perform as the Prince of Salina, which initially was met with much reluctance.  However, the initial resistance to cast Lancaster was swept away as he performed with convincing brilliance, which together with Visconti's direction left cinema history with a masterpiece.

The story circulates Don Fabrizio, a dominant aristocrat with a mere presence that demands respect, as it depicts an emerging new nation and a past where inherited power was slowly slipping away.   Don Fabrizio recognizes the ruling class's ignorance for the current political changes as the nation is unified under the new flag.  The aristocrats continue their silly games and diversions in their immense mansions that are slowly falling apart as an emerging middle class is seeking wealth and power.  This leads Don Fabrizio to form a bond between the nobility and the common by permitting a wedding between Tancredi Falconeri (Alain Delon) and Angelica (Claudia Cardinale), whose father, Don Calogero, is a middle class politician that is raising in the ranks.  This leads to a subtly political loaded film as it depicts the scheming middle class's quest for power and wealth as the nobility might only keep their fancy names if they are not following the new changes within the nation.

Leopard is a marvelous film with colossal shots of the Sicilian scenery that evokes a sense of freedom for the people while underlying currents bring notions of ownership.  The story deals with ownership in a most delicate manner as it deals with love, marriage, friendships, war, and social events.  However, Leopard also reminds the audience about the imminent change of possession as love can change, which is brought to the audience's attention when Don Fabrizio goes to see his lover amidst a bloody revolution.  In addition, the tale of Don Fabrizio displays the manner in which one must control or protect ownership.  This is brilliantly depicted in the opening scene where the Salina family is having a private mass in their home that is continued under the strong influence of Don Fabrizio as an emerging revolution is underway outside their windows.  Under the cooperation between Visconti and Lancaster the audience experiences the transformation of Don Fabrizio from old to new while.  This transformation is what helps provide for a brilliant cinematic experience as it offers eye candy, profound insights, and a tale that will not be forgotten.

DIRECTED BY

Luchino Visconti

COUNTRY

Italy / France
REVIEWED
6/21/2004
GRADE


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