The Conformist

The Conformist (1970) is an Italian political drama directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, based on the novel by Alberto Moravia. The film tells the story of Marcello Clerici (Jean-Louis Trintignant), a man who, in the years leading up to World War II, seeks to conform to the fascist ideals of his time while hiding his inner turmoil and past secrets. The Conformist is renowned for its stunning cinematography, designed by Vittorio Storaro, which uses light and color to reflect Marcello's psychological state and the oppressive political climate. The film's exploration of conformity, betrayal, and the moral compromises people make in times of political upheaval has made it a masterpiece of Italian cinema. Its unique visual style, combined with its stark social critique, cemented it as one of Bertolucci’s defining works.