It Was the Son


It Was the Son is a 2012 Italian comedy-drama film directed by Daniele Ciprì. The film was selected to compete for the Golden Lion at the 69th Venice International Film Festival, where Ciprì won the Osella for Best Cinematography.

Premise

The main story unfolds within the frame story of an older man waiting to pay bills at a post office in Palermo, who captivates his listeners by promising to tell the story of a boy who killed his father over a scratched car. Nicola Ciraulo is a father trying to teach his son the basics of his maritime salvage / scavenging business. Soon thereafter, Nicola's daughter is killed by mafioso. This murder entitles the family to compensation for their loss, which brings out their greed and begins the central conflict of the story.

Cast

Reception

Variety called it "an annoying parody of an Italo pic" and stated that it diminished Italy's international filmmaking reputation. The Hollywood Reporter said that the film "has curiosity value, but it ends up feeling too flat and bleak."