Illuminata (1998)

Illuminata (1998)
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Actor John Turturro, who made his directorial debut with the Cannes Camera d'Or winner Mac (1992), returned to directing with this period farce about a struggling, turn-of-the-century New York repertory company owned by Astergourd (Beverly D'Angelo) and Pallenchio (Donal McCann). Egotistical playwright Tuccio (Turturro) has written a new play, Illuminata, for the troupe's actress-manager Rachel (Katherine Borowitz), daughter of aging actor Flavio (Ben Gazzara), who's lost his memory. Tuccio would like to see Illuminata staged, but the owners feel the play is unfinished. Young Piero (Matthew Sussman) collapses while performing in Cavalleria Rusticana, and this provides the ambitious Tuccio with an opportunity to introduce his new work to audiences. Unfortunately, foppish critic Bevalaqua (Christopher Walken) is unimpressed and issues a vicious attack on the production -- while also making unsubtle overtures to company clown Marco (Bill Irwin). Diva Celimene (Susan Sarandon) seduces Tuccio with her promises to bring him worldwide fame and fortune. Other liaisons are played out with the juvenile leads (Rufus Sewell, Georgina Cates), a veteran clown (Leo Bassi), and a supporting actress (Aida Turturro). Shown in competition at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival. ~ Bhob Stewart, Rovi

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Starring:
John TurturroKatherine Borowitz, (more)
Director(s):
John Turturro
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R
Format(s):
DVD  | Digital SD
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Synopsis of Illuminata

Actor John Turturro, who made his directorial debut with the Cannes Camera d'Or winner Mac (1992), returned to directing with this period farce about a struggling, turn-of-the-century New York repertory company owned by Astergourd (Beverly D'Angelo) and Pallenchio (Donal McCann). Egotistical playwright Tuccio (Turturro) has written a new play, Illuminata, for the troupe's actress-manager Rachel (Katherine Borowitz), daughter of aging actor Flavio (Ben Gazzara), who's lost his memory. Tuccio would like to see Illuminata staged, but the owners feel the play is unfinished. Young Piero (Matthew Sussman) collapses while performing in Cavalleria Rusticana, and this provides the ambitious Tuccio with an opportunity to introduce his new work to audiences. Unfortunately, foppish critic Bevalaqua (Christopher Walken) is unimpressed and issues a vicious attack on the production -- while also making unsubtle overtures to company clown Marco (Bill Irwin). Diva Celimene (Susan Sarandon) seduces Tuccio with her promises to bring him worldwide fame and fortune. Other liaisons are played out with the juvenile leads (Rufus Sewell, Georgina Cates), a veteran clown (Leo Bassi), and a supporting actress (Aida Turturro). Shown in competition at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival. ~ Bhob Stewart, Rovi

Theatrical Feature Running Time:
111 mins

Complete Cast of Illuminata


Director(s):
John Turturro
Writer(s):
Brandon ColeJohn Turturro
Producer(s):
John PenottiJohn Turturro
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R(Adult Language, Nudity, Sexual Situations)
Warning:  This product is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain violence, sexual content, drug abuse and/or strong language. You must be 17 or older to purchase it. By ordering this item you are certifying that you are at least 17 years of age.

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Member Reviews
 
Shawn F.

A great over-the-top movie for anyone who can appreciate superb stage acting. Walken played his most unusual role yet, and had me laughing so hard I was choking. The whole cast was brilliant and the story was well written, witty and had some hysterical sex scenes. It should have received many awards in my opinion.

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Sarah M.

A touching love story, gentle and witty humor, gorgeous costumes and sets, and an A+ perfomance from the entire cast. I love the theater, and this makes me feel as if I'm in the front row. My all-time favorite movie! A love story about searching, finding, and keeping perfect (or imperfect as life show us) love.

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Francesca J.

I found this movie to be simply amazing. An all star cast of whom each is at their top. Beautiful script, amazing costumes, and an end that leaves you wishing for more.... in a good way. John Turturro is brilliant in this creative and unique story. Best movie I've seen in a long time.

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