Il futuro

The film opens with the death of two teenager's parents, leaving them to live by themselves. Money is tight for Bianca and Tomas but the arrival of two shady guys from the gym where the latter works changes everything. They put forward a scheme to rob a reclusive actor who was famous in the 60's for playing the character Maciste in peplum movies. Bianca is sent in to seduce him but things don't play out as planned.

Il Futuro is a strange film that isn't really story driven at all. The crime angle that underpins the narrative is ultimately not especially important, more a device of linking Bianca to Maciste. What made the film most enjoyable for me was Manuela Martelli who was not only good in the central role but also added a strong sensual dimension to proceedings. She spends a considerable amount of time naked and covered in oil which does ensure that this is a drama that has a definite erotic angle. Rutger Hauer is additionally an interesting presence, even if his character essentially remains somewhat enigmatic.

So what does it all mean? Not a huge amount I would venture. The title seems to refer to the fact that the central character's present is poor and the future is all. Bianca uses sex as a means of moving forward but it doesn't work and things end with her and her brother having learnt a few lessons from their experience. I suppose it's a coming-of-age film in some ways. But mainly it works best as a slightly left-field erotic drama; more a slice of life rather than a story.