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Deep Dive: Videocracy (2009)

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Videocracy
Videocracy is a documentary directed by Erik Gandini that examines the influence of Italian television on culture and politics, particularly focusing on Silvio Berlusconi's role in shaping this landscape. The film introduces various characters, including Ricky, a mechanic aspiring to be a TV star, and Lele Mora, a TV agent who draws parallels between Berlusconi and Benito Mussolini. The narrative also features Fabrizio Corona, a paparazzo who profits from celebrity scandals, illustrating the intertwining of media and personal fame in Italy. The film critiques the phenomenon of Berlusconism, coining the term 'The Evilness of Banality.' It uses Berlusconi's campaign theme song, which Gandini initially perceived as satire. The documentary gained significant attention at the 66th Venice International Film Festival and faced censorship, as its trailer was banned by most Italian broadcasters. It was released in multiple countries and achieved notable box office success in Italy.

Why Watch

  • •See how Berlusconi shaped Italian media culture.
  • •Meet Ricky, a mechanic chasing TV stardom.
  • •Find out why the film's trailer was banned in Italy.

Did You Know

•Videocracy premiered at the 66th Venice International Film Festival in 2009.
•The film opened in 90 theaters across Italy on September 4, 2009.
•Erik Gandini coined the term 'The Evilness of Banality' in this film.
•Videocracy won awards at the Toronto International Film Festival and Sheffield Doc/Fest.

Perfect For

Italian politicsMedia influenceCelebrity culture