Copperman

Copperman is a 2019 drama film splendidly brought to life by gifted Italian director Eros Puglielli. This film oscillates brilliantly between the genres of drama and superhero fantasy, exploring themes of tolerance, acceptance, and the portrayal of differently-abled individuals in society.

Leading the ensemble cast in the film is the charismatic Luca Argentero, best known for his remarkable performances in Eat Pray Love, and One Day More. Argentero shines in his portrayal of Anselmo, a man with a heart of gold who suffers from a particular form of autism known as Asperger's Syndrome. His chilling, stirring performance as a differently-abled individual is not only convincing but also manages to catch the viewers' attention and sympathy with his subtly nuanced expressions and actions.

This protagonist is not your typical hero. Despite being socially awkward, and struggling to fit into the 'standards' of what society perceives as normal, Anselmo finds his calling when he discovers his superhero persona as The Copperman. Adorned in an endearing makeshift costume made entirely of copper fragments, he roams his small hometown, flying the flag of justice and aiming to resolve disputes and malpractices in his own, idiosyncratic way.

Antonia Truppo, renowned for her unforgettable roles in The Embalmer and Stay Away from Me, joins Argentero as the female lead. She portrays Rosa, a hardworking single mom, raising her teenage son, Leo. Their lives intertwine with Anselmo’s when he rescues Leo from a menacing situation at school. Truppo’s moving portrayal of a mother encountering the obstacles life throws her way while juggling a job, and raising a child with special needs, makes way for numerous heartfelt moments in the film.

Galatea Ranzi, a famed name in the world of Italian cinema, adds another layer of resilience and strength to the plot with the role of Cecilia. She is the owner of the recycling plant where Anselmo works, thus making her the provider of his favorite superhero costume material - copper. Their relationship induces a poignant narrative into the film, exploring the nuances of uniquely intertwined lives.

The movie is beautifully rendered by Puglielli's direction which captures the nuances of everyday life in a small Italian town. He exhibits an excellent prowess in showcasing the struggles and joys of Asperger's Syndrome, without resorting to cliches or tropes. The film unravels both the challenges faced by Anselmo as he navigates the world and the ways in which he, in his unique manner, perceives and transforms the world around him.

The screenplay of Copperman, penned by Marco Alessi and Antonio Manca, provides a fresh perspective to the superhero genre. The artful combination of drama with elements of superhero fantasy provides viewers with an ideal platform for perceiving people with developmental disorders in a new light.

The cinematography by Romano Alviani infuses an aesthetic vibrancy into the film, making it more appealing. The simple familial homes, the copper-furnished factories, and the unique images of Anselmo adorned in his copper resolutions smoothly intersect, creating a seamless visual story. The film's musical score, composed by Pivio and Aldo De Scalzi, complements its narrative perfectly by echoing the thoughts, mood, and spirit of the characters.

Overall, Copperman is a film that champions the cause of individuals struggling with developmental disorders. It beautifully questions the societal norms, as it revering diversity and broadcasting a message of acceptance, tolerance, and recognition. It's an inspiring cinematic masterpiece where the superhero is not a mold of physical prowess or supernatural abilities, but rather a character who challenges and overcomes his own limits, demonstrating that every individual, regardless of their differences, can make a significant contribution to society.

Copperman is a must-watch film, a rewarding emotional journey that leaves you with a fresh perspective on what it really means to be a superhero.