Alice Rohrwacher's Happy as Lazzaro (Lazzaro felice) is a mesmerizing blend of social realism and magical fable that earned the Grand Jury Prize at Cannes. The film follows Lazzaro, a preternaturally kind young peasant living with his family in the isolated rural community of Inviolata, who are exploited as sharecroppers by the cunning Marchesa Alfonsina de Luna. Adriano Tardiolo delivers a remarkable, quietly profound performance as Lazzaro, whose innocence seems almost supernatural.

The narrative takes an astonishing turn halfway through, blending temporal elements that transform the story from a critique of modern exploitation into something more mystical and timeless. Rohrwacher's direction is masterful, creating a tactile world that feels both specifically Italian and universally mythical. The cinematography by Hélène Louvart captures the golden wheat fields and crumbling architecture with a documentary-like authenticity that makes the magical elements feel organic.

Happy as Lazzaro works as both a pointed social commentary about class inequality and a poetic meditation on goodness in a corrupt world. The supporting cast, particularly Alba Rohrwacher as the complex aristocrat Antonia, adds depth to this exploration of human relationships across social divides. Viewers should watch this film for its unique tone that balances harsh reality with gentle wonder, creating an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It's a rare cinematic achievement that challenges audiences while offering visual and emotional richness.