What's Salo about and why is it so famous?

Salo is a 1975 Italian film directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini, based on the final chapters of the Marquis de Sade's 120 Days of Sodom. It's a powerful exploration of fascism and its effects on society, and it's considered one of the most iconic and influential films of all time.

Is Salo suitable for all audiences?

No, Salo is not suitable for all audiences. The film contains explicit content, including graphic violence, nudity, and mature themes. It's rated NC-17 and is not recommended for viewers under the age of 18.

What's the significance of Pasolini's Salo in the world of cinema?

Salo is a landmark film in the world of cinema, known for its powerful exploration of fascism and its effects on society. It's a must-watch for fans of Pasolini and Italian neorealism, and it's considered a masterclass in cinematic storytelling and direction.

How long is Salo and what's the runtime?

The runtime of Salo is 121 minutes, or 2 hours and 1 minute.

What awards has Salo won and been nominated for?

Salo has been nominated for several awards, including the Palme d'Or at the 1975 Cannes Film Festival.

Is Salo available to stream or purchase?

Yes, Salo is available to stream on several platforms, including Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.

What's the difference between Salo and other Pasolini films?

Salo is a unique film in Pasolini's oeuvre, known for its explicit content and mature themes. It's a departure from his earlier works, which were more focused on social commentary and critique.

Can I buy a copy of Salo on DVD or Blu-ray?

Yes, Salo is available to purchase on DVD and Blu-ray, and it's highly recommended for fans of Pasolini and Italian neorealism.

The Dark Side of Cinema: A Review of Salo

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47 years have passed since Pasolini's untimely death, and I dedicate this review to his legacy.

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I spent years feeling stuck, desperate to make the most of my time, so I decided to challenge myself by exploring the world's cinematic masterpieces.

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I started with Pasolini's 'Salo', his final work as a director, and I wish I hadn't seen it.

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The film is a disturbing portrayal of fascists, instilling such intense hatred that it's no wonder they never forgave him.

Unforgettable film!

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A Little History

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Pier Paolo Pasolini was a cult Italian film director, poet, and writer who combined Marxism with Christian ideals.

He fiercely battled against the bourgeoisie and was a passionate anti-fascist.

I highlighted this word, as it's crucial.

His hatred for fascism led him to create such a disturbing film.

His hatred for fascism ultimately led to his brutal murder.

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Here's what Wikipedia says about it:

Pasolini was brutally murdered on November 2, 1975, in Ostia, near Rome. His body was found in the morning, covered in blood. He had ten broken ribs, a crushed heart, a broken jaw, a broken left hand, and partially torn ears. A car drove over his body several times.

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In his film, Pasolini so grotesquely and repulsively portrayed fascists, instilling such intense hatred that they never forgave him.

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The Marquis de Sade: A Name Synonymous with Decadence

But what you might not know is that this infamous aristocrat was more than just a writer and a pervert.

He was a politician and a philosopher who advocated for absolute freedom of the individual.

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The novel that inspired the film was written way back in 1785.

Here's what Wikipedia has to say about it:

The story revolves around four wealthy hedonists who decide to push the boundaries of their sexual desires by locking themselves away in a secluded chateau with a harem of 38 people, mostly young men and teenage girls. They're joined by four prostitutes who regale them with tales of their adventures, which only serve to fuel their depravity. As the days turn into weeks, the group's behavior becomes increasingly sadistic and violent, culminating in the brutal murder of nearly all their victims.

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This brief summary of the novel makes for a pretty effective trailer for the film, with one key difference: Pasolini transposed the story to 1944-45 Italy, and made the perpetrators high-ranking fascist officials.

These aging, jaded individuals, aware that their time is running out, decide to go out with a bang.

They round up a team of young and beautiful conscripts, take them to a secluded estate, and embark on a long and terrifying bacchanalia.

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The Film: A Masterpiece of Disturbing Realism

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Right from the start, we see the time and place of the events unfold:

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The young people ride off into the sunset on their scooters:

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But what's coming next is even worse:

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The unmistakable figures of fascist scum, and with them - the mafia. They're all loyal servants of the elite perverts.

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Pasolini sets the tone from the very first frames. He leaves no room for doubt, he screams: FASCISTS ARE DEGENERATES!!! And I'm about to prove it to you.

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And then it's on...

Weak stomachs, get out of the room! People with sensitive tummies, grab a bucket! And those who are easily offended, put on a straitjacket.

Kino starts.

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Look at these bloated, arrogant fascist spiders on the balcony. Among them is the president, the duke, and the bishop:

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And in front of them are their victims, cowering in a heap:

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They're scared, but they can't even begin to imagine the hell that's coming for them.

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As expected, the sadists escalate things.

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First, they warm up with some pornographic stories from old prostitutes:

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Then they have dinner in a 'relaxed' atmosphere:

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Salò, or 120 Days of Sodomxa0

These people are playing with victims like cats with mice.

A little bit of flattery:

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Flesh, or 120 Days of Sodomxa0

The show:

Flesh, or 120 Days of Sodomxa0

But the sadists wouldn't be sadists if they didn't decide to turn the screws even tighter.

With each passing day, the violence becomes more refined, unbearable, and deadly.

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I wouldn't recommend watching any further. This will be seared into your brain forever. I'm positive you'll never forget it!

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The Cast: A Talented Group of Actors

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I have no idea how Pasolini managed to convince people to act in this film.

And I have no idea how they didn't disappear into the ground after seeing themselves in this masterpiece.

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But the fact remains: the actors are amazing and delivered some truly convincing performances.

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Take, for example, Aldo Valletti's lustful face:

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Aldo Vallettixa0

I wonder what his friend is doing to him right now.

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And check out the way Umberto Paolo Quintavalle's eyes seem to be barely holding back:

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Umberto Paolo Quintavallexa0

Élisabeth Wiener is still reveling in her depravity, even in her old age:

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Élisabeth Wienerxa0

Caterina Boratto - she's a real piece of work, don't expect any kindness:

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Katerina Boratto

I still can't wrap my head around how they got so deep into their roles. I'm serious, it's like they became the characters.

Our actor, Dem'yanenko, has spent his whole life struggling with people only seeing him as Shurik. Poor guy, he's a happy person!

These actors played some pretty dark roles.

They made a name for themselves in the global film industry, no question.

Art house, Italian neorealism... it's like they were speaking a different language.

Can't help but think of Gaidai:

Realism is key in our line of work!

That's the kind of realism these Italian drama and comedy masters brought to the table – it's just mind-blowing!

And the young actors? They got it from all sides.

Now it's just tears all the way, like Antonio Orlando:

Antonio Orlando

The Verdict

I couldn't give the film a low rating – it's a world classic, a one-of-a-kind work of genius.

Even giving it a high rating feels awkward. Who am I to judge a mastermind who gave his life for his art?

But, of course, I have to give it a high rating.

But here's the thing: I categorically wouldn't recommend watching this film. It's hazardous to your health!

And it's not just about what happened to its creator.

Watching this film made me feel terrible.

I had to close my eyes from time to time just to avoid getting sick.My stomach was in knots, and my blood pressure shot up.Once you see those scenes, you can't unsee them.Trust me on this one and never watch the film.

But know this: there was a person who hated fascism so much that he let it consume him and then unleashed it on the world, making millions of viewers feel queasy.

He passed away on November 2, 1975.

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