Original interpretation — not a still from the production
Everything must change so that everything can stay the same.
The Continental Verdict
Essential
Visconti, an aristocrat filming the end of aristocracy, spends forty-five minutes on a ball and earns every one of them. Lancaster's Prince Salina understands before anyone else in the room that his class is finished, and carries the knowledge with a courtesy that is almost unbearable.
It is a historical epic that contains almost no history — only heat, dust, dynastic arithmetic and one long night of dancing. The restored print is among the most beautiful objects in cinema.
Why Watch It
The Gentleman Factor
Salina's dignity in decline is the highest standard the canon offers.
Look Out For
- The ball, in full
- The dinner at Donnafugata
- Lancaster walking home alone at dawn
The Locations
Palazzo Valguarnera-Gangi in Palermo and the Sicilian interior in high summer.
More from the travel pages →The Cars
Carriages only — and better for it.
More from motoring →The Wardrobe
Piero Tosi's tailcoats and uniforms; the ball gowns alone are a museum exhibition.
More on style →The Soundtrack
Nino Rota, with a Verdi waltz recovered from the archives.
Into the music room →Watch Next
Where to Watch
Criterion; insist on the Italian-language cut.
For the Collection
Also in War & History
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