The Working Class Goes to Heaven by Elio Petri
One-line Summary:
The Working Class Goes to Heaven is a thought-provoking Italian film directed by Elio Petri. It explores the struggles of a factory worker named Lulù Massa, who becomes an accidental hero after a tragic accident. The film delves into the complexities of class struggle, workers’ rights, and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism.
Main Cast and Crew:
- Director: Elio Petri
- Writer: Elio Petri
- Main Actors: Gian Maria Volontè as Lulù Massa, Mariangela Melato as Lidia, Gino Pernice as Corrado Zeller, Luigi Diberti as Ugo, and Salvo Randone as Union Delegate
- Music Director: Ennio Morricone
- Director of Photography: Luigi Kuveiller
- Producers: Ugo Tucci and Daniele Senatore
Plot:
The Working Class Goes to Heaven follows Lulù Massa, a dedicated factory worker who loses his arm in a tragic accident. While recovering, Lulù becomes increasingly aware of the oppressive conditions faced by workers in the factory. He becomes involved in the labor union and starts fighting for workers’ rights, much to the dismay of the management.
Lulù’s activism leads to conflicts with his fellow workers, who are hesitant to challenge the status quo. His relationship with his wife, Lidia, also suffers as she struggles to understand his newfound passion. As Lulù continues his fight, he faces opposition from both the management and the union leadership, who view him as a disruptive force.
The film explores the dehumanizing effects of capitalism, as Lulù’s transformation from a loyal worker to a radical activist challenges the established order. Petri skillfully portrays the internal struggles faced by Lulù, torn between his loyalty to his fellow workers and his desire for personal fulfillment.
Themes and Motifs:
The Working Class Goes to Heaven tackles several central themes, including class struggle, workers’ rights, and the dehumanization of labor. Petri uses symbolism and motifs to highlight these themes, such as the recurring image of Lulù’s missing arm representing the sacrifice of the working class.
The film also explores the complexities of power dynamics within the labor movement, as Lulù’s idealism clashes with the pragmatism of the union leadership. Petri raises questions about the effectiveness of traditional labor unions in bringing about real change and the compromises workers must make to survive in a capitalist society.
Reception and Legacy:
Upon its release in 1971, The Working Class Goes to Heaven received critical acclaim for its powerful portrayal of the working class struggle. It won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival and was nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards.
The film’s legacy lies in its ability to spark discussions about workers’ rights and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism. It remains relevant today, resonating with audiences who continue to grapple with similar issues. The Working Class Goes to Heaven stands as a testament to Petri’s skill as a filmmaker and his commitment to social commentary.
Recommendation:
The Working Class Goes to Heaven is a must-watch for those interested in thought-provoking cinema that explores social and political issues. Petri’s direction, combined with Gian Maria Volontè’s powerful performance, creates an engaging and impactful experience. The film’s themes and motifs will leave viewers contemplating the complexities of the working class struggle long after the credits roll.
Memorable Quote:
“Only when the working class goes to heaven will the bourgeoisie learn to live on earth.” – Lulù Massa
