The Yes Man

Synopsis

The Yes Man (Il portaborse) is a gripping 1991 Italian political drama directed by Daniele Luchetti, featuring Silvio Orlando in a compelling role. The film delves into the murky world of political corruption through the eyes of Luciano Sandulli, an idealistic journalist who becomes a loyal aide—or 'yes man'—to a powerful and morally ambiguous politician. As Luciano gradually discovers the compromises and ethical dilemmas inherent in political life, the narrative unfolds a tense exploration of power, ambition, and integrity within Italy's contemporary political landscape. The movie masterfully combines personal drama with a sharp critique of political machinations, offering a thought-provoking perspective on loyalty and conscience.

Cast

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  Silvio Orlando

  Luciano Sandulli

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  Nanni Moretti

  Cesare Botero

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  Giulio Brogi

  Francesco Sanna

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  Anne Roussel

  Juliette

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  Angela Finocchiaro

  Irene

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  Graziano Giusti

  Sebastiano Tramonti

Reviews

The Yes Man received generally favorable reviews upon release, appreciated for its incisive political commentary and strong performances. On IMDb, the film holds a solid rating of 7.0/10, reflecting audience appreciation for its storytelling and character development. Critics praised Silvio Orlando's nuanced portrayal of Luciano, highlighting his ability to convey the internal conflicts of a man caught between ambition and morality. Variety lauded the film for its 'penetrating insight into political power games' and its 'realistic portrayal of the compromises behind public life.' However, some reviewers pointed out the film's dense political themes might be challenging for viewers unfamiliar with Italian politics; The New York Times noted that while the film is intellectually stimulating, its pacing can sometimes feel deliberate and heavy. Rotten Tomatoes lacks an aggregated critic score due to limited international reviews, but user feedback often emphasizes the film's effective craftsmanship and relevance. Metacritic does not have a rating for this title, reflecting its status as more of a cult or niche film rather than a mainstream commercial hit. Overall, The Yes Man is praised for its intelligent script and remarkable direction, making it a significant work in Italian cinema that resonates with audiences interested in political dramas.

See also

Pulp Fiction

Joker

Titanic

Shutter Island