Name: The Commander
Genre: War, History, Drama
Released: 2023-10-31T00:00:00+00:00
Cast: Pierfrancesco Favino, Massimiliano Rossi, Johan Heldenbergh, Silvia D'Amico, Arturo Muselli

The opening shot of Edoardo De Angelis’ The Commander is a stark contrast: the inky blackness of the Atlantic night, punctured by the sudden, violent flash of a submarine’s periscope light. This visual metaphor sets the tone for a film that grapples with the moral complexities of war and the weight of command.

Based on a true story, The Commander follows Salvatore Todaro (Pierfrancesco Favino), the captain of the Italian Royal Navy submarine Cappellini during World War II. One fateful night, his vessel sinks an armed merchant ship, and in a decision that will echo through history, he chooses to rescue 26 Belgian sailors instead of leaving them to drown. This act of humanity forces Todaro to navigate his submarine on the surface for three days, exposed to enemy forces, endangering not only himself but also his crew.

De Angelis crafts a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors the confined quarters of the submarine. The cinematography is tight and intimate, with long takes that emphasize the tension and the moral dilemmas faced by Todaro and his men. Favino delivers a commanding performance, conveying the internal struggle of a man torn between duty and humanity. His portrayal of Todaro’s quiet resolve and moral fortitude anchors the film.

The supporting cast, including Massimiliano Rossi as Vittorio Marcon and Johan Heldenbergh as Georges Vogels, brings depth to the crew members, each reacting differently to their captain’s decision. The dynamic between Todaro and his men is a highlight, with moments of quiet camaraderie and tension that feel authentic.

However, the film falters in its pacing. While the tension is palpable during the submarine’s surface navigation, the narrative struggles to maintain momentum during the quieter moments. Some scenes feel drawn out, and the historical context could have been better integrated to provide more depth to the characters’ motivations and the political landscape of the time.

The sound design is a standout element, with the constant hum of the submarine’s engine and the distant echoes of enemy ships creating an immersive auditory experience that heightens the sense of danger. The score, when it appears, is subtle and effective, underscoring the emotional beats without overpowering the dialogue or action.

The Commander is a thoughtful exploration of morality in war, but its pacing issues and occasional lack of historical context prevent it from fully realizing its potential.