1900

An epic historical drama film from 1976, directed by Italian filmmaker Bernardo Bertolucci. The narrative spans from the early 20th century to the end of World War II and is set in Italy. At its core, the story follows the lives of two men born on the same day: Alfredo Berlinghieri (Robert De Niro), heir to a wealthy landowning family, and Olmo Dalcò (Gérard Depardieu), the son of peasants. Their friendship is tested against the backdrop of social and political upheavals, including the rise of fascism and class struggle. Alfredo, despite his privileged status, remains a passive observer of the changing times, while Olmo actively engages in the socialist movement, fighting for the rights of the peasants. The film delves into themes of friendship, betrayal, class disparity, and political conflict. A pivotal character is Ada (Dominique Sanda), a schoolteacher and Alfredo's lover, who becomes both a witness to and participant in key events. Other notable characters include Attila (Donald Sutherland), a brutal leader of the fascist "Blackshirts," and Regina (Laura Betti), his ruthless accomplice. The film is renowned for its grand scale, running over five hours, and its in-depth portrayal of historical context. "1900" received mixed reviews upon release but has since been recognized as a significant work in Bertolucci's filmography and an important contribution to the cinematic interpretation of European history.