Director's Spotlight
Senior Film Conservator

Director's Spotlight: Italy
A Deep Dive into the 1937 Vision of Raffaello Matarazzo
Deciphering the layers of It Was I (1937) reveals a monumental shift in Comedy filmmaking spearheaded by Raffaello Matarazzo. With its avant-garde structure and atmospheric tension, offering layers of thematic complexity that demand repeated viewing.
In It Was I, Raffaello Matarazzo pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative. The film's unique approach to its subject matter has sparked endless debates and interpretations among cinephiles and critics alike.
While deeply rooted in Italy, It Was I has achieved a global reach, influencing directors from various backgrounds. Its ability to translate Comedy tropes into a universal cinematic language is why it remains a cult staple decades after its 1937 release.
| Cinematography | Noir-Inspired |
| Soundtrack | Synth-Heavy |
| Editing | Rhythmic |
| Art Direction | Naturalist |
Visualizing the convergence of Raffaello Matarazzo's style and the core Comedy narrative.
A comedy about an unemployed fellow who goes to live with his brother and runs into trouble with his brother's overbearing wife.
Decades after its release, It Was I remains a vital piece of the cinematic puzzle. Its influence can be seen in countless modern works, solidifying Raffaello Matarazzo's status as a master of the craft in Italy and beyond.