The live action and CGI retelling of Pinocchio is directed by Matteo Garrone and stars Federico Ielapi as Pinocchio, Roberto Benigni as Geppetto, and Rocco Papaleo as the voice of Jiminy Cricket. The film was released in 2019 in Italy and had its international premiere at the 2020 Berlin International Film Festival.
The storyline of the movie follows the classic tale of Pinocchio, a wooden puppet carved by Geppetto who dreams of becoming a real boy. Throughout his adventures, Pinocchio encounters various characters who help or hinder his journey, including the mischievous Fox and Cat, the kindly Blue Fairy, and the villainous Coachman who lures misbehaving boys to Pleasure Island.
The film is a visually stunning and dark retelling of the classic story, with the use of practical effects and CGI to bring the characters and world to life. The performances of the cast are also noteworthy, with Ielapi perfectly embodying the innocent and curious nature of Pinocchio, and Benigni offering a heartfelt portrayal of the fatherly Geppetto.
Despite its adherence to the original story, Garrone's version of Pinocchio also offers subtle critiques of society and the moral values it upholds. The film explores themes of temptation, honesty, and the consequences of one's actions, making it a must-watch for both children and adults alike.