Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975)

Exploring the Storyline

Set against the backdrop of fascist Italy during World War II, Salò follows the lives of four libertines who hold absolute power. These individuals capture nine young boys and girls, subjecting them to relentless torment and degradation. The film unflinchingly portrays acts of violence, including sodomy, corpophagia, eye-gouging, and other sadistic atrocities. However, the true horror lies not only in the depiction of physical violence but in Pasolini’s portrayal of the emotional and psychological torment inflicted upon the victims.

Pasolini’s Subtle Critique

Although Salò shocks viewers with its graphic and disturbing scenes, it is important not to dismiss it as mere shock value. Pasolini’s intention goes beyond creating a spectacle of violence. By providing extensive backstories and sadistic proclivities of the fascists, while offering no insight into the lives of the children, Pasolini forces us to question the nature of humanity. The film presents a damning critique of power, violence, and the abuse of authority. It confronts the audience with the chilling notion that those in positions of power are often more human than their victims, showcasing the depths of human depravity.

Pasolini’s Vision and Social Commentary

Pier Paolo Pasolini, known for his confrontational filmmaking style, infuses Salò with his personal disapproval of the modern world. This film serves as a reflection of his disdain for societal decay and his perception of encroaching global dominance by fast food chains. The unsettling scenes, such as the “banquet of s**t,” can be interpreted as a scathing attack on the homogenization and dehumanization perpetuated by consumerist culture. Additionally, the film’s depictions of sexual excess challenge the permissive society, dismantling any expectations of titillation or exploitation.

A Visual and Auditory Experience

Salò’s aesthetics contribute significantly to its unsettling atmosphere. Shot on washed-out, faded film stock using static cameras and long shots, Pasolini creates a visual style reminiscent of cinema-verite documentary. The intentional use of choppy editing and limited cutaways enhances the feeling of discomfort. Accompanying these visuals is a disconcerting soundtrack, blending big band music and piano dirges. The intentionally scrappy post-dubbed dialogue further intensifies the overall mood, making the viewers truly experience Pasolini’s primal scream of rage and despair.

Enduring Impact and Critical Reception

Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom has become renowned as one of the most grueling and challenging films ever made. Despite its initial release over four decades ago, it continues to captivate and disturb audiences. Its unflinching portrayal of human violence, idealism, and moral redemption, or lack thereof, has solidified its status as a thought-provoking masterpiece. However, due to its explicit and disturbing content, Salò is not a film easily forgotten or suitable for everyone’s sensibilities. Those seeking to explore the depths of human nature and confront the harsh realities of power dynamics should approach the film with caution and readiness for a profoundly impactful experience.

Watch “Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom” online on CineAthens.com

If you are intrigued by the exploration of human brutality and the depths of despair found in Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom, you can watch the film online here. Prepare yourself for an intense and thought-provoking journey that will challenge your perceptions of power, violence, and the human condition.

• Note: Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom contains explicit and disturbing content. Viewer discretion is advised.