The Conformist

Synopsis: Bertolucci's famous 1970’s drama, based on the 1951 novel “The Conformist” by Alberto Moravia. About a sexually repressed man in 1930s Italy, who is consumed by an irresistible need to fit in with society. This leads him to embrace fascism as Mussolini rises to power. As his allegiance to the regime takes over his life, he agrees to assassinate his old teacher. The film is a case study in the psychology of fascism, and according to the political philosopher Takis Fotopoulos "The Conformist" (as well as "Rhinoceros" by Ionesco) is "a beautiful portrait of this psychological need to conform and be 'normal' at the social level, in general, and the political level, in particular." The film has been very influential for other filmmakers, and is widely praised as a visual masterpiece.