Un'ora prima di Amleto, più Pinocchio

This film is an 8-minute backstage documentary in Italian, directed by Carlo Battistoni in 1989. It takes the viewer behind the scenes of the productions of Carmelo Bene's Italian theater works Amleto and Pinocchio. The film presents unique insights into the creative process and the passion of the director, who is widely acclaimed as one of the most innovative and provocative artists in experimental theater, both for his personal theatre theory and for his brilliant acting skills. This short lets the audience into the unusual world of director Bene's theatrical interpretations. From afar, the decors seem to be collections of objects, closer, they reveal their inexpressible meanings. Bene's productions go beyond theater conventions and limited possibilities of description and allows the viewer unusual views of his artistic world. By the use of direct sound, the film lets the viewer experience the powerful rhythm of the work, and the exhausting work behind the scenes of the two performances. For those who admire Carmelo Bene and those who are curious about avant-garde theater, this documentary presents the creative genius of one of Italy's greatest artistic provocateurs.