film
Rimini
directed by Ulrich Seidl, Germany / Austria / France 2022, 114'
- Although Richie Bravo still carries himself like a rock star, the best years of his artistic career are behind him. All that is left for the aging Austrian crooner to do is cash in on his former popularity. However, his dyed hair, shiny suit and voice still make quite an impression on groups of pensioners visiting the Italian city of Rimini in the low season, and Richie takes advantage of this. During his evening performances at the hotel, he sings old musical hits. He sells souvenirs, rents out his villa if necessary, and provides an extensive package of professional gigolo services for his most loyal female fans.
- At one point, a stranger crosses Richie’s path, who turns out to be the daughter he abandoned years ago. Will his attempt to rebuild this uneasy relationship be a chance for a fresh start?
- The master of European cinema, Austrian director Ulrich Seidl, known for his famous Paradise trilogy, proves that he has not lost his sharp edge. This time, however, in addition to mocking the flaws of his characters, Seidl portrays them with an astonishing degree of understanding, leaving plenty of room for subjective interpretations. Pity? Disgust? Or perhaps genuine compassion and sympathy? It is worth watching Rimini to find out what the protagonist will make us feel and whether we will notice a distorted reflection of our own flaws in at least some of Richie’s vices.
