Per una giornata di malumore nazionale

About This Movie

So, this film, "Per una giornata di malumore nazionale," is quite the oddball piece, really. It’s from 1969 and directed by Gianfranco Baruchello, who’s more of an artist than a conventional filmmaker. The atmosphere is heavy and contemplative, with a surreal edge, as it juxtaposes the mundanity of washing coins with a critique of consumerism and the effects of war. The pacing is methodical, almost hypnotic, as you watch him clean these coins, then prepare them for a meal. It’s a fascinating exploration of value and consumption, and the practical effects are simply the coins themselves, but the performance is all about his engagement with the act. Definitely something that makes you think about what we attach significance to.

This film is relatively scarce, with few copies floating around, especially in good condition. It’s a lesser-known work of the late 60s avant-garde movement, which adds to its allure for collectors. While not as mainstream as other films from that era, it draws interest due to its unique thematic exploration and Baruchello's artistic background, making it a conversation starter among collectors who appreciate the intersections of art and cinema.