The Eight Mountains (2022)

The Eight Mountains delves into themes of friendship, loss, and human bonds. Filmmakers Felix van Groeningen and Charlotte Vandermeersch skilfully tell this story, framed by the stunning Italian Alps. Central to the plot are two boys, Bruno (played by Alessandro Borghi) and Pietro (acted by Luca Marinelli). Their strong friendship blossoms amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery. Much like the towering peaks, their relationship is moulded by their shared journeys, mutual understanding, and deep attachment to their surroundings. As adults, their paths in life separate, leading them down distinctive journeys. Still, the friendship they forged when young remains strong, an unquestionable constant amid their ever-evolving lives.

The movie cleverly wraps history and culture into the story. It shows changes in Italy’s countryside and the traditions that hold its people together. The mountains are almost like a character in the film; their rugged beauty reflects the complicated relationships between people. We see Pietro’s and Bruno’s life journey through several small scenes spread over many years. They face obstacles in life, love, and dealing with loss. Time, space, and their own problems test their friendship. But, it lasts, showing the power of human strength. Themes like friendship, loss, and the need to belong strike a chord. The acting by Alessandro Borghi and Luca Marinelli is so real, it brings their characters to life. You can feel their bond, which makes it believable and emotionally touching.

Felix van Groeningen’s and Charlotte Vandermeersch’s direction is superb. They beautifully showcase the majestic mountains, yet they also craft touching interactions among the characters. Daniel Norgren’s music is affecting and eerie. It emphasises the movie’s emotional intensity.

Ruben Impens’ cinematography is amazing. With his camera, he paints a moving portrait of the Italian Alps. The mountains are like a person, changing moods like our characters do. They chose a square film format, different from the usual wide screen. This change highlights the mountains, which are important to the story. It also makes you feel boxed in, like the characters who live in a hidden alpine village during summer breaks.

This movie progresses at a thoughtful speed, letting us fully dive into Pietro and Bruno’s lives. The shifts in time and feelings are expertly interwoven into the story by the editor. The script, penned by Felix van Groeningen and Charlotte Vandermeersch, is succinct and moving. It often expresses hidden feelings with gentle nods and unstated words.

I checked out this film at an early showing a couple of weeks ago, and it’s still on my mind. If you are looking for a film that is simultaneously visually stunning and heartwarming, you must watch it. The Eight Mountains is a gorgeous, deep, and smart journey into friendship you shouldn’t miss.

(In cinemas from November 30 — check your local movie guide for show times.)