Napoli Dogs is a 2006 Italian film directed by Matteo Garrone. The movie is set in Naples, a city in Italy that is plagued by poverty, unemployment, and crime. The film focuses on the lives of two men, a petty criminal named Lupo and a former boxer named Enzo, who are leading miserable lives in this city. Lupo is a young man who is trying to survive in Naples by committing petty crimes like stealing and pickpocketing. He is seen wandering through the city with his gang of friends, trying to make ends meet. Lupo is a charismatic character who is full of energy and has a lust for life. He is always looking for the next thrill and is willing to take risks to find it.
Enzo, on the other hand, is a former boxer who has fallen on hard times. He now works as a dog-catcher, picking up stray dogs from the streets of Naples. Enzo lives a lonely life, with his only friend being a dog named Jerry. He is haunted by the memories of his past failures and is struggling to find a sense of purpose in his life.
The movie interweaves the lives of these two men, as they navigate through the gritty streets of Naples. The city itself is a character in the film, with its chaotic streets, rundown buildings, and bustling markets. The film captures the essence of Naples, with its vibrant culture and colorful characters.
As the film progresses, Lupo and Enzo's paths cross, and they strike up an unlikely friendship. Lupo takes Jerry under his wing and helps Enzo find a new purpose in life. The two men start to see the world through each other's eyes and form a bond that helps them to cope with the troubles of their lives.
Napoli Dogs is a powerful film that explores the lives of ordinary people living in a city where life is tough. The movie provides a realistic portrayal of Naples, with its poverty, corruption, and crime. The film is shot in a gritty, documentary-style manner, which adds to the realism of the story.
The performances of the cast are outstanding, particularly that of Elio Germano, who plays the role of Lupo. Germano's portrayal of this charismatic character is full of energy and intensity, and he captures the essence of youthfulness and desperation that drives Lupo. Salvatore Abruzzese, who plays Enzo, delivers a powerful performance as a man struggling to find meaning in his life.
The movie is not without its flaws. At times, the pacing of the film can be slow, and some scenes feel unnecessarily drawn out. Moreover, the ending of the film feels unsatisfying, and it leaves the viewer with a sense of ambiguity.
Overall, Napoli Dogs is a riveting and poignant film that captures the spirit of Naples and the lives of its inhabitants. The movie is a powerful commentary on the struggles of ordinary people living in challenging circumstances. The film leaves a lasting impression on the viewer, and it is a must-watch for anyone interested in Italian cinema or gritty social dramas.
Napoli Dogs is a 2006 documentary with a runtime of 50 minutes.
