Marco Bellocchio, the acclaimed Italian director, has never shied away from stirring up emotions and challenging societal norms throughout his career. One film, in particular, caused quite a stir – his feature debut, “Fists in the Pocket.” In a recent conversation at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Bellocchio reminisced about the audacity of making a film in Italy about a son murdering his mother. He believed it was a powerful idea from a dramatic standpoint, but it left audiences shocked and puzzled.
A Clash Between Bellocchio and Buñuel
Interestingly, the controversy surrounding “Fists in the Pocket” extended beyond the Italian borders. The renowned Spanish director Luis Buñuel, often celebrated for his surrealistic and revolutionary approach to filmmaking, couldn’t fathom the bitterness portrayed by the angry young man in Bellocchio’s film towards his own mother. Buñuel even went so far as to compare it to performing an obscene act. Bellocchio revealed that their paths would cross again in Venice, where he was showcasing another politically charged film called “China Is Near.” This time, Buñuel approached him and expressed his admiration while still voicing his disapproval of certain elements in “Fists in the Pocket.”
From Politics to Psychoanalysis
Bellocchio’s politically charged films continued to draw criticism, but he also faced mockery for his later fascination with psychoanalysis. Collaborating with psychotherapist Massimo Fagioli during the production of “Devil in the Flesh” raised many eyebrows within the industry. Bellocchio, however, explained that his transition from political utopia to psychoanalysis was simply born out of frustration and a need for self-reflection. He admitted that he had reached a point where he no longer believed in the revolutionary dream, leading him to explore his own psyche for answers.
The Essence of Freedom in Filmmaking
During his conversation, Bellocchio also shared his thoughts on the concept of freedom in filmmaking. He emphasized that true freedom cannot be confined to ideology or expectations imposed by others. Bellocchio believed that self-censorship in various forms was regrettably commonplace in the industry. He suggested that filmmakers should focus on defending their creative integrity, rather than constantly worrying about whether their work would align with certain beliefs or ideologies.
The Power of Detail
Bellocchio further emphasized the power of detail in filmmaking. He recounted instances where seemingly insignificant scenes resonated deeply with audiences. For example, a small gesture of an old cardinal hitting the pope on the head multiple times in “Kidnapped” condensed centuries of Church rituals. Bellocchio also mentioned the final scene in “Good Morning, Night,” his acclaimed depiction of the murder of politician Aldo Moro. Someone once suggested to him that he could discard the rest of the film and keep only that scene. These moments reminded Bellocchio of the importance of valuing the humanity of individuals, even if they represent conflicting ideas.
Personal and Universal Themes
Bellocchio’s films often carry a personal touch. In his latest work, “Marx Can Wait,” he delves into a tragedy within his own family – the suicide of his twin brother. Bellocchio described this film as his smallest yet most liberating endeavor. Through exploring his own experiences and the subsequent struggle to understand his brother, he realized the universal nature of such conflicts among family members.
Looking Ahead
Bellocchio concluded the conversation by expressing his support for younger filmmakers. Despite some “old masters” believing that cinema will cease to exist without them, Bellocchio disagreed. He urged young filmmakers to move away from shock value and instead create films that are personal, deep, and simple. He cited Aki Kaurismäki’s “Fallen Leaves” as an example of a film that captivated him with its simplicity and authenticity. Bellocchio believes in moving the audience through genuine storytelling rather than relying solely on technological advancements.
Marco Bellocchio’s journey as a filmmaker has been marked by controversy, introspection, and a steadfast dedication to pushing boundaries. From his audacious debut to his exploration of personal and universal themes, Bellocchio continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.