Watch Ultras

Ultras is a compelling drama film directed by Francesco Lettieri and written by Lettieri and Michael Schermi, that was released in 2020. The movie is set in Naples, Italy, and revolves around the life of a former football hooligan, Sandro (Aniello Arena), who is still very much involved in the world of ultras. The film takes us on a journey into the world of Italian football and the passionate and dangerous world of ultras.

The story begins by introducing Sandro, who is now a middle-aged man, as he struggles to find his identity and purpose outside of his role as an ultra. He spends most of his time reflecting on his days as a football hooligan, and his nostalgia for the past is evident. Sandro's world is rocked when he is asked to mentor a young ultra named Angelo (Ciro Nacca) who idolizes him. The young ultra's passion for the sport and the lifestyle reignite Sandro's love for ultras, and he takes the young man under his wing.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the world of ultras has changed dramatically since Sandro's heyday. The love and passion for football remain, but the violence and intolerance have escalated. Sandro and his newly found protege' are caught up in this world, where they have to navigate complex relationships and allegiances. The film does an excellent job of showing how football hooliganism has changed over the years, and how it is no longer just about football. Instead, it has become a culture in which young men strive to find a sense of belonging and purpose.

One of the movie's strengths is the focus on character development, and how these characters are more than just football hooligans. There's Sandro, the troubled and aging ultra who is trying to figure out his place in the world. Angelo, the young protege who looks up to Sandro and wants to fit in but who is also dealing with some significant personal issues. Then there's Sandro's girlfriend, Terry (Antonia Truppo), who has a complicated and abusive relationship with Sandro, and who adds a much-needed perspective on the personal relationships that underpin the ultra lifestyle.

The film is also visually stunning, with a strong emphasis on the ultra lifestyle as a form of rebellion and self-expression. The movie is full of beautiful shots of Naples and the surrounding countryside, painted in a grittier and more realistic light than most films set in Italy. The soccer games themselves are also well-directed, with Lettieri doing a great job of capturing the energy and excitement of Italian football matches.

Overall, Ultras is an excellent film that does an excellent job of showing the complexities of the ultra world. It's a gritty and realistic portrayal of football hooliganism, and the characters are well-drawn and nuanced. The film does an excellent job of balancing its focus on the world of ultras with character development and personal relationships. It's a must-see for anyone interested in soccer, Italian culture, or dramas that explore the complexities of human relationships.

Ultras is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.