Watch Lost and Beautiful

Lost and Beautiful is a heartwarming Italian film released in 2015, directed by Pietro Marcello. The movie revolves around the journey of a young man named Tommaso, who looks after a majestic Italian buffalo called Sarchiapone. The story is based on a real-life incident, and it takes the viewer on an emotional journey through a magical land of beauty and loss.

The film begins with a mythic tale of a buffalo who falls sick and dies. The animal's spirit is transformed into a soul and guided by a spirit guide through the afterlife. The story then moves to the present day, where an old shepherd named Pulcinella takes care of the buffalo until he falls gravely ill. He seeks out the help of a wealthy landowner named Tommaso, who agrees to take care of the buffalo and allow Pulcinella to die peacefully.

The narrative of the film then takes a unique turn as Sarchiapone becomes a central figure in the movie. The buffalo is given a voiceover that is incredibly poetic and philosophical, providing a unique perspective on the beauty of nature and our place in it. Tommaso is then tasked with taking the buffalo on a journey across Italy to find a "fairy" who can bring Pulcinella back to life.

Throughout their trip, Tommaso and Sarchiapone encounter a range of characters - from a group of children with an infectious sense of adventure to an old hermit who lives in a cave. Marcello uses these characters to explore the different aspects of Italian culture, including religion, politics, and social issues.

The cinematography of Lost and Beautiful is breathtaking, with shots of the Italian countryside forming a stunning backdrop for the movie's narrative. The film is presented in an unconventional style, which includes both fiction and non-fiction elements. There are moments where the story is told through interviews with real-life characters, which adds an additional layer of depth to the movie.

One of the key strengths of this film is its ability to evoke a profound sense of empathy within the viewer. Tommaso's bond with Sarchiapone is incredibly touching and speaks to the universal themes of love and loss. The movie also tackles broader issues such as the loss of tradition, the destruction of nature and the consequences of development.

The acting performances in the film are remarkable, with talented actors Sergio Vitolo and Tommaso Cestrone taking on the lead roles. The steady and calm approach of Sergio Vitolo as the shepherd who's only wish is to protect his buffalo and Tommaso Cestrone’s rugged and journeying role as the man responsible for helping the buffalo reaches its destination keeps the viewers engrossed in the story till the very end.

Furthermore, the film soundtrack is marvelous, with a range of traditional Italian music and soundscapes forming an essential component of the movie's mood and atmosphere.

In conclusion, Lost and Beautiful is a cinematic masterpiece that is both visually stunning and emotionally charged. The film's poetic narration, breathtaking cinematography, and exceptional performances make it an unforgettable viewing experience. It's a film that stays with a viewer long after the credits roll, reminding us of the beauty in life and the significance of loss.

Lost and Beautiful is a 2015 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.