A Film Rooted in Reality

The 2017 Italian comedy Like a Cat on the Ring Road wasn’t born from a fictional concept, but from a personal experience of director Riccardo Milani. The film’s narrative began when his fourteen-year-old daughter started dating a young man from Bastogi, a residential complex located in the western quadrant of Rome. Milani recounts following them in his car, experiencing panic, immediate prejudice, the feeling of being faced with alien territory.

This initial reaction mirrored that of the film’s protagonist, Giovanni. The film captures a sentiment expressed by a character: That is an irrecoverable place: in comparison Scampia is a wellness centre. This line highlights the hypocrisy at the heart of the story.

Inspiration from Documentary and Collaboration

The film’s development was further influenced by the documentary Residence Bastogi by Claudio Canepari, which focused on the lives of families within the complex, particularly the women awaiting the return of their husbands from Rebibbia prison. Milani had viewed this documentary prior to his first feature film, and it remained with him until his personal experience provided the narrative spark.

The screenplay is a collaborative effort, credited to Riccardo Milani, Paola Cortellesi, Giulia Calenda, and Furio Andreotti. Cortellesi’s involvement extended beyond acting; she played a crucial role in shaping the character of Monica, drawing from her own experiences.

Character Development and Authenticity

Paola Cortellesi revealed she was born in the suburbs of Rome, in Massimina, and recognized elements of her own upbringing in Monica’s world. To embody the role, Cortellesi underwent a physical transformation, including tattoos, piercings, and distinctive hair and clothing. The character’s linguistic authenticity – the accurate use of Roman dialect – stemmed from a collaborative writing process.

Antonio Albanese approached his role as Giovanni with similar rigor, portraying an intellectual who advocates for integration while privately harboring prejudices.

Bringing Bastogi to Life

The production team didn’t recreate Bastogi on a soundstage; they filmed on location. Weeks were spent in the neighborhood, interviewing residents and gathering stories. Some of these real-life accounts were incorporated directly into the script, including the characters of Pamela and Sue Ellen. Many residents as well appeared as extras in the film, particularly in scenes depicting everyday life.

Music and Title Significance

The film’s score was composed by Andrea Guerra, son of the renowned screenwriter Tonino Guerra. The title, Like a Cat on the Ring Road, is a variation of the Roman saying like a cat on the Aurelia, signifying something destined to fail.

Success and Legacy

Released on December 28, 2017, the film grossed over 14 million globally. It garnered significant recognition, including 2 Ciak d’Oro, 1 Golden Globe, and 3 Silver Ribbons. The success of the film led to a sequel, Like a Cat on the Ring Road — Return to Coccia di Morto, released in 2021.

The film’s success propelled Paola Cortellesi to new heights, establishing her as a prominent voice in Italian cinema, culminating in her critically acclaimed 2023 film, There’s still tomorrow.

FAQ

• What inspired ‘Like a Cat on the Ring Road’? A real-life experience of the director, Riccardo Milani, with his daughter’s relationship.
• Where is Bastogi located? In the western quadrant of Rome, between Torrevecchia and Quartaccio.
• Who composed the film’s music? Andrea Guerra, son of Tonino Guerra.