Directors Tomaso Aramini and Rafqfuad Yarahmadi take viewers on a historical journey through the left-wing political movements in Italy during the late 20th and early 21st century. The documentary follows the journey of Armando Lanza, former logistic mastermind of the Red Brigades. Situating the story within a detailed and historical context gives depth of understanding to the situation that has been unfolding in Italy for decades, and has the potential to shed new light on these ideologies.
There is a great amount of historical footage used in the documentary which creates a vivid backdrop for the discussions between Lanza and the people interviewed. It paints a picture of times gone by. The Lost Shoes was also written by Tomaso Aramini and the documentary reflects a huge wealth of research in the gathering of the information and footage used. The film gives an incredibly comprehensive account of Italy’s rebellion against capitalism. Beginning with worker and student strikes, to the protests against America’s involvement in the Vietnam War and growing tensions that create new threats.
Over time, different factions begin to emerge from the movement against capitalism – the Red Brigades were born. And from inside the Red Brigades, a militaristic guerrilla fraction forms. The Lost Shoes closely follows the birth, growth and development of these ideologies which is helpful in exploring how they can change over time and lead to radicalisation. A definitive change of direction for the group occurred when the Red Brigades kidnapped US NATO General James Dozier. The documentary recreates this scene with an artistic animation which is both eerie and captivating, adding to the films visual aesthetic while also communicating important information.
The documentary also delves into the movements of the present, showing footage from 2019. These clips provide a stark contrast to the earlier ones, showing how much technology and society has apparently moved on while also reflecting that people are still protesting for change even today. In the final speculations for the future, The Lost Shoes wraps up its long look at Italy’s left-wing past, ending the tour du force on a positive note. The rather sentimental approach to the Red Brigades is a little unusual considering they are largely regarded as a terrorist group. However the information in the documentary is presented in an unbiased way and is of historical importance.
The Lost Shoes is very well put together with evidence of creative editing which helps divide the documentary into manageable chunks. The scenic shots help add colour and vibrancy to the heavy political information. When used as transitional scenes, these shots also give the audience a moment to reflect and think which is always useful in a documentary.
The Lost Shoes is a beautifully constructed documentary that gives an impressively detailed account of a segment of history that is not often discussed.
Watch the trailer below.