Roberto Ando's 'Viva La Liberta' is a beautifully shot political satire: the composition of the images in the film are truly exceptional. It stars Toni Servillo who plays a pair of twin brothers with impressive subtlety: one a burnt-out senior politician who vanished on an unannounced retreat, the other his mischievous twin brother who is drafted in to take his place. The latter uses the techniques of Cosimo di Medici, and rises to a peak of personal popularity through the use of gnomic speeches which allow everyone to project their own fears and desires onto him: he seems to be the first honest politician, even though his words have little underlying meaning. Ultimately the film didn't quite (to me) fully deliver on its premise: there is no single moment of dramatic resolution, and it's unclear whether the final message is actually anything stronger than " a change is as good as a rest". But it's worth watching for the quality of its cinematography and acting.

Viva la Liberta (2013)Maybe I'm programmed to like this kind of scenario: a boring politician is replaced with someone who is idealistic and fun, and who tells it like it is. The American version of this is "Dave" which is a hoot. Now we have an Italian version, which is more subtle and poetic. Definitely worth seeing.The genius here on screen is the actor Toni Servillo who plays both men, the senator and the slightly wacky twin brother who takes his place. It all happens so naturally, with one small twist after another. There are past loves and political foes that factor into both lives equally, to the point that you might not be sure who is who, and if there are in fact two people after all.But then, that's the magic of how this comedy is made. It is full of laughs, but it's oddly brilliant and philosophical, too. It can be appreciated on a million levels, so just let it seep into your pores.

Previous reviewers mentioned how this movie reflects the politics of Italy. I would say this movie is reflective of not only political reality in Italy, but many other countries where bipartisan politics has turned governments into corrupted systems that serve only the political and corporate elites of the society at the expense of ordinary citizens, irrespective of which party is in power. Although the storyline evolves around a politician, politics is surely not the centre stage of the film. It is about catastrophe at national, organisational and personal levels, and how passion, courage and art emerge as saviours that lead the protagonist through the crisis. The message is beautifully delivered, and delivered at an opportune time, where people in many parts of the world have been very much exhausted and frustrated by the prolonged political and economic crisis.The acting of all the actresses and actors are very remarkable and enjoyable indeed; but that of the leading actor is particularly fascinating and impressive. You will not be disappointed!

I agree great movie ... very real and funny ... Mastandrea - Servillo surprising as the film acting.It has to compete for an Oscar in 2014. Beautiful script WITH directed ,actors in a state of grace, cult dialog,very smart and funny. Fantastic performances Toni Servillo and Valerio Mastandrea .An Italy that unfortunately is reflected in the crisis of the protagonist,funny scenes from the anthology .I hope that the film will be appreciated abroad and have the awards ,really nice.Keep an eye on the final, VERY BEAUTIFUL . The film is adapted from the novel "THE EMPTY THRONE"