People are so hyped for director Paolo Sorrentino’s sumptuous new Netflix original film The Hand of GodIt was only a few days before the movie had its theatrical debut in Italy. There were howls that 250 screens weren’t near enough to accommodate the massive amount of interest in the film (ahead of its December 15 streaming debut).
That’s even though 250 screens represented the most expansive initial theatrical run for a Netflix movie thus far in Italy. Also, the cinemas of the country will enjoy the longest window in history between the theatrical debut and midnight. The Hand of GodThe moment it launches on Netflix. Nevertheless, the larger point is that there’s such a tremendous amount of anticipation This movieA coming-of-age story about a young boy living in Naples in the 1980s. This coincides with a shift in attitudes towards the streaming giant. The fact Italian that theaters in Italy are now complaining they don’t have enough copies of Netflix’s new movie? That’s a far cry from this month just two years ago. Back when Netflix released Alfonso Cuaron’s RomaOnly 50 copies of the film were sent to Italian cinemas first.
The Hand of God movie on Netflix Dec. 15
“Wonderful,” “sensuous”And a “sublime masterpiece.”
Enjoy the Official Trailer #TheHandOfGod. A film by Academy Award® winner Paolo Sorrentino, starring Filippo Scotti, in select theaters December and on Netflix December 15. pic.twitter.com/47otFiAQOS
— The Hand of God (@handofgodfilm) November 11, 2021
To the extent that The Hand of GodThis story seems quite straightforward, according to Netflix. Netflix claims that the following: “young Fabietto pursues his love for football as family tragedy strikes, shaping his uncertain but promising future as a filmmaker.”
But even if you didn’t know that, or really any details at all? I’d argue you can still watch the trailer above and feel pretty moved. And like there’s a gorgeous, atmospheric sweep and visual beauty to this film that transcends language and place.
“The Hand of God is a story full of unexpected joys, such as the arrival of football legend Diego Maradona, and an equally unexpected tragedy,” Netflix’s press material explains. “Fate plays its part, joy and tragedy intertwine, and Fabietto’s future is set in motion.”
This film was made by Sorrentino. Sorrentino returned to his hometown to tell what’s said to be his most personal story to date. “A tale of fate and family, sports and cinema, love and loss.”
Reactions so far
Current film score is 79% from critics Rotten Tomatoes. This score is based upon 34 reviews so far. This isn’t bad at all for a Netflix hybrid release that hasn’t even hit the streamer yet.
Here’s what critics who’ve already seen the film are saying:
- The Globe and Mail: “The Hand of God is a sprawling, gorgeous mess, but one you can’t look away from — and it might just break your heart.”
- Radio Times: “It’s captivating, haunting, even shocking at times, with a grandiose visualization of the majestic, crumbling city and its spectacular environs.”
- The Hollywood Reporter: “Returning to his Neapolitan roots … has brought out sumptuous veins of joy and sorrow that feel richer, deeper, more searingly poignant than anything the director has done before.”
The Hand of God will play in select US cinemas starting December 3. The Hand of God will be in select US theaters starting December 3.
