In the Shade of the Conformist(2011)

In the Shade of the Conformist is a visual essay by film critic Adriano Apra that examines Bernardo Bertolucci's early and mature work. Apra traces Bertolucci's evolution from his collaboration with Pier Paolo Pasolini on La Commare Secca through the Nouvelle Vague-influenced Before the Revolution, the politically turbulent Partner, and The Spider's Stratagem. The essay devotes particular attention to The Conformist, analyzing its distinctive color palette, camera movement, and cinematography. Apra explores how Bertolucci adapted Alberto Moravia's novel, discussing the casting choices, script development, and key thematic conflicts. Extended interview footage with Bertolucci himself reveals the film's production history and creative decisions. Through clips and critical commentary, the essay illuminates how Bertolucci's visual language deepened across his career, culminating in one of Italian cinema's most formally inventive political dramas.