A new take on Jack London’s classic 1909 novel!
Pietro Marcello’s latest installment is the period drama Martin Eden, based on the 1909 novel of the same name by Jack London. Like the book, the film follows the life of a young working class sailor whose love for a high society woman of the upper class sends him on a journey of self-education, and careers in writing and politics. Marcello then transposes London’s work by changing the setting from Oakland, California to early twentieth century Italy, as the young Martin Eden (portrayed by Luca Martinelli) lives through a number of major historical events that would alter the country’s trajectory forever.
Though of simple origins, through love and determination to be with the impeccable Elena (played by Jessica Cressy), Eden works to become an educated and respected writer. His devotion to realism and the brutality of life often leads to rejection from publishing outlets. Despite his struggle, Eden remains hopeful and sticks to his craft. Along the way we see the political revolutions that will take place in Europe throughout this period, and how Eden is ultimately persuaded by his close friend Russ Brissenden (played by Carlo Cecchi) to carry out a career in political writing. His success in politics and writing helps him achieve what he never would have thought possible for his class, but leads to tensions with Elena who represents the bourgeois society his works critique.
Marcello also uses a number of interesting editing and cinematography techniques in order to better visually display his vision. While the narrative alone is strong enough to hold our attention, there are also a number of well crafted long takes, stunning shots, and inter-spliced archival footage that gives this film a sense of authenticity and originality that is not seen too often these days. Similarly, the performances from all of the actors is near on perfect, with Luca Martinelli even receiving the best actor award at this year’s Venice Film Festival.
Likely to be one of the more important films to be released this year, Martin Eden contested for the Golden Lion at the 76th Venice International Film festival. It received its premiere in the United States at the New York Film Festival on October 6th, and will certainly be one to look out for as it continues to be released worldwide.