There are those countries that are just too beautiful not to lend themselves to films, and American films being shot in Italy is nothing new since the country does offer a lot of interesting and very impressive venues and sights. There are however those cities that are more developed than others and don’t lend themselves quite as much to films as they would need to, but Italy is called ‘the old country’ for a reason by those that have been there. This is largely because there are still areas that might be upgraded where it can’t be readily seen, but still possess an old world style that’s hard to beat.
Her are just a few films that show just how wondrous a film can be when brought over to the old country.
5. The Talented Mr. Ripley
Thomas Ripley is a guy that wants to live the life of another, more interesting person since honestly he’s pretty dull and not all that interesting of a character. But he has one skill that makes it possible for him to become just about anyone he wants to be. Tom can forge documents, he can impersonate people, and he can slip into a person’s life and take it over if he wants to. In this film he has no issue in taking what he wants when it’s made certain that it won’t be given freely.
4. Angels & Demons
All this buildup to finally come out with an unseen character that’s been present the whole time as a supposedly innocent man. The entire film seems to be predicated around who’s killing cardinals and who the new pope will be if the four men that were selected keep ending up dead. By the end though it becomes little more than an illegitimate child with a desire to be the next pope and a plan to cause widespread chaos.
3. The Italian Job
The remake differs quite a bit since it doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but the original is a little more silly in that you’re never sure if the thieves got away with the gold or not. But one thing is for sure, the film does offer up a few good laughs and a lot of excitement as it careens from start to finish. Michael Caine in his prime was something special to watch.
2. Ladyhawke
Ladyhawke is a favorite of many fans as it is one of the more beloved fantasy stories that has become something of a cult classic. The story has been long forgotten by many that might have enjoyed it back in the day and is barely thought of by those that seek out adventure and fantasy movies in this day and age, but it will always be one of the greats.
1. The Godfather
Truly one of the greatest films ever made not just for the content but for the acting, the story, and the overall emotions that are put into every nook and cranny of the film. The Godfather is one movie that many upon many people can agree has become one of the most legendary movies to ever grace a screen, be it big or small.
I realize that many countries can be called the ‘old country’ but in this case, Italy fits the bill nicely.
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