“The Invite”, a brilliant film that thrives on witty dialogue

However, ‘Sentimental’ is not the only main point of reference for ‘The Invite’ (it should also be noted that the Spanish film has already had several remakes, including the 2022 Italian film ‘Vicini di casa’) but Woody Allen’s films also spring to mind, as do the many films set entirely within a single flat, depicting relationship crises (from “Carnage” to “Perfetti sconosciuti”, just to name a few others).

For all these reasons, “The Invite” certainly doesn’t shine for its originality, but it miraculously manages to mask the limitations of a familiar premise, thanks in part to the work of an excellent cast, featuring Olivia Wilde herself, Penélope Cruz, Edward Norton and Seth Rogen. It is Rogen, in particular, who stands out the most and proves to be completely at ease in the role of a man who is just as frustrated at work as he is at home.

Bear in mind that this could be one of the titles shortlisted for major future awards.

Among the new releases in cinemas is also “Normal”, the latest film from the talented British director Ben Wheatley.

The protagonist is Sheriff Ulysses, who is on a temporary posting in the picturesque small town of Normal in the American Midwest: this was meant to be a respite from his personal and professional problems, a chance to distance himself from his worries, the injuries sustained whilst on duty, and a past that continues to haunt him. But the community’s tranquillity is abruptly shattered by a daring bank robbery gone wrong, which accidentally brings a dark and dangerous secret to light. Ulysses is thus dragged into a spiral of violence and tension.

The Coen brothers’ films may well spring to mind (both because of the blend of black humour and violence, and because of the protagonist’s name) when watching this film, which nonetheless possesses its own narrative and stylistic identity: Wheatley is a filmmaker who has often hit the mark in the past (think of *A Field in England* or *Happy New Year, Colin Burstead*), and this film is no exception.

“Normal” suffers from the usual flaw of being somewhat weak in terms of dramatic structure, but it is nonetheless an entertaining programme, which also offers some thought-provoking political reflections on contemporary America that should not be underestimated.

It is worth noting the excellent form of the lead actor, Bob Odenkirk, whom much of the audience will remember for his role as Saul Goodman in the series “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul”.