“The Hand of God” is an autobiographical film of nostalgia and hope that Paolo Sorrentino dedicates to young people.

Synopsis of "The Hand of God"

In the 1980s in Naples, the legendary soccer player Diego Maradona arrives in the town where the young boy Fabieto Schiesa lives. Fabieto lives peacefully with his kind parents and his eccentric relatives, but a sudden tragedy strikes, bringing an end to his innocent childhood.

Index

• Naples since the debut
• An unconventional approach to Naples
• The director of photography is also from Naples
• Is this "Sorrentino's Amarcord"?

Naples since the debut

On Monday, November 1, 2021, there was a pleasant surprise at the Japan premiere of "The Hand of God," which was entered in the Gala Section of the 34th Tokyo International Film Festival. Before the main screening, a video Arrival from director Paolo Sorrentino to the Japanese audience was shown on the screen.

The director maintained his usual sullen expression, but with a strong desire to convey something, said, "This is a story for the future. I hope that young people around the world who are living through difficult times right now will find something new in their own lives."

“The Hand of God” Gianni Fiorito

The setting of "The Hand of God" is Sorrentino's hometown of Naples. This is the first time he has depicted the place since his directorial debut, "The Other Man" (2001). To weave an autobiographical story, he returns to his hometown to depict his childhood. Sorrentino uses his unique visuals and strong character portrayals to elevate this theme, which can easily become sentimental, into a drama of childhood memories and growth that is burned into the eyes of everyone.

" The Hand of God " is full of impressive shots and characters that recall the fantastical sight of the world heritage sites that decorate the ending of " The Great The Way We Were " (2013) and the unique elderly people who gather at a luxury spa in "The Great Finale" (2015). And so, as the director said, he has completed a masterpiece that exudes nostalgia for a time lost, while also hinting at hope for the future.