This is a really beautiful film. I am neither Italian, nor Catholic (nor even religious at all in the usual sense) but found this to be wonderful and involving. (I know Italy, and love it, though.) Taking place in around the turn of the previous century, the simple life of farming tenants on a lord's estate is portrayed with great charm and simple respect. You get a fascinating look at what to us now of course seems a backward combination of ancient religious myths and medieval magic, all believed in the hope of a better life in what is a difficult existence. Yet there is a hint of the modern world to come in the distant shouts and arrests of political activists glimpsed to the side, who are advocating a more fair economy, and less dependence on outmoded beliefs. The warm and dignified life of the loving families is quite believable, and no need to judge the comforts they cling to. In terms of length an pacing, it takes its time, it is true, but it is really worth it. A sort of living demonstration of the enduring human spirit, and the passing of time and history---even as old ways are dimly remembered and treasured for their sentiment.

A mosaic of peasant life in Lombardy at the turn of the twentieth century that slowly moves along for three hours but never comes close to losing interest thanks to the wealth of details and (though amateur) moving performances. In the title lies the heartwrenching conclusion abruptly reached after the meandering and soulful journey that is taken into the lives of a group of peasant families, with the butchering of a goose and later a pig, a marriage, a boatride to Milan, and a dinner amongst the sisters of a convent while the stirrings of political change and repression stay mainly in the background but are there to see. While the focus is on the peasants, the world that the movie creates is more like being there than any other film around.

My Rating : 9/10

One of Al Pacino's favorite movies of all time. That is enough reason to seek out this wee gem of Italian cinema.

If you've seen 'Bicycle Thieves' (which I think is one of the greatest movies ever made) you will certainly enjoy this movie - this is leisurely-paced with a 3 hr 6 min runtime, beautiful colours of the farm and everyday life of a poor Italian farmer community of 19th Century is exquisitely depicted with grace and nobility.

The film captures the essence of poverty - with such poignancy and beauty that it enriches the viewer's intellect - this is what it means to be meaningful art/cinema. All the actors are not professionals and most of the production duties are handled by the director himself which adds to the beauty of this little gem.

I loved this movie and hope you will too. Happy viewing!