Oscar Isaac and Gerard Butler's new "bonkers" drama has just landed on Netflix
A new drama described by critics as "bonkers" and "wildly uneven," starring Oscar Isaac and Gerard Butler, has just premiered on Netflix, offering subscribers a unique and star-studded cinematic experience. Titled 'In the Hand of Dante', the film brings a compelling, if polarizing, adaptation of Nick Tosches' 2002 novel to the global streaming platform after its debut at last year's Venice Film Festival and a brief theatrical run in the US.
'In the Hand of Dante' At a Glance
By Decode Today News
'In the Hand of Dante' is a dramatic adaptation of Nick Tosches' 2002 novel, now streaming on Netflix. It weaves a narrative around the discovery of Dante Alighieri's original 'Divine Comedy' manuscript, which traverses from the Vatican library to the underworld of a New York mob boss, eventually reaching Tosches himself. Oscar Isaac plays a dual role as both Tosches and the iconic Italian writer Dante, while Gerard Butler, Jason Momoa, Gal Gadot, John Malkovich, Al Pacino, and Martin Scorsese also feature in a sprawling ensemble cast. Directed and co-written by Julian Schnabel, the film has garnered mixed critical reactions, noted for its ambitious visuals and "bonkers" narrative.
A Quest for the Sacred: The Dual Narrative Unveiled
The core of 'In the Hand of Dante' spins a tale around one of history's most revered literary treasures: the handwritten original manuscript of Dante Alighieri's 'Divine Comedy'. The film begins by depicting its discovery within the hallowed confines of the Vatican library, an artifact of immense historical and cultural value. However, this priceless relic soon embarks on an unexpected and perilous journey, falling into the clutches of a formidable New York mob boss before making its way to Nick Tosches, a character based on the novel's author, portrayed by the formidable Oscar Isaac.
Isaac's role extends beyond merely playing Tosches. In a bold narrative stroke, he also embodies Dante Alighieri himself, appearing in scenes that depict the legendary Italian writer in the throes of creating his iconic masterpiece. This dual performance by Isaac creates a fascinating juxtaposition, blending the modern, gritty reality of the manuscript's illicit journey with the poetic, historical genesis of the 'Divine Comedy'. It allows the film to explore themes of legacy, authenticity, and the enduring power of art across centuries.
An Ensemble of Heavyweights
Beyond its intriguing premise and Oscar Isaac's central performance, 'In the Hand of Dante' boasts an incredibly deep and distinguished cast list, bringing together a host of internationally recognized talent. Gerard Butler, known for his roles in action epics, takes on dual roles as Louie and Pope Boniface VIII, showcasing a range that spans from contemporary crime to historical gravitas. His presence adds significant weight to the film's ensemble, promising engaging portrayals in both timelines.
The supporting cast reads like a who's who of Hollywood. Jason Momoa, recognizable from 'Aquaman', appears as Rosario, injecting his characteristic intensity into the drama. Veteran actor John Malkovich, celebrated for his extensive filmography including 'Opus', portrays Joe Black. Gal Gadot, widely acclaimed as 'Wonder Woman', also takes on a dual role as Giulietta and Gemma Donati, further enriching the film's complex narrative tapestry. Adding legendary gravitas, 'The Godfather' icon Al Pacino features as Uncle Carmine. Even director Martin Scorsese steps in front of the camera, appearing as Isaiah, underscoring the film's appeal to industry heavyweights.
This stellar lineup, under the direction of Julian Schnabel, who also co-wrote the screenplay, elevates 'In the Hand of Dante' into a significant event for cinema enthusiasts. Schnabel, celebrated for his critically acclaimed work on 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly', brings his distinctive artistic vision to this ambitious project, aiming to deliver a film that is as visually arresting as it is narratively intricate. His involvement alone suggests a production crafted with a keen artistic eye and a desire to push cinematic boundaries.
Critical Reception: 'Bonkers' But Never Dull
Upon its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, 'In the Hand of Dante' received a notably mixed reception from critics, leading to a modest 38% "fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 26 reviews. This divergence in critical opinion highlights the film's unconventional and challenging nature, suggesting it's not a production that caters to every taste but certainly one that sparks discussion.
The Hollywood Reporter, for instance, labelled the film as "bonkers" and "wildly uneven," adjectives that immediately capture the essence of its bold narrative choices and perhaps its unpredictable shifts in tone or style. However, even in its assessment of the film's perceived flaws, The Hollywood Reporter conceded, "Even when it goes off the rails, In the Hand of Dante is never dull. And there is always something glorious to look at." This suggests that despite its narrative eccentricities, the film maintains a captivating visual appeal and an undeniable energy that prevents it from becoming tedious.
Variety echoed a similar sentiment, describing the movie as "a folly that pulsates with life," and further noting that "even when it doesn’t add up, it’s the kind of high-flying ride it’s hard to shake off." This review hints at a film that, while perhaps not entirely coherent or traditionally structured, possesses a vibrant spirit and a memorable impact on the viewer. It speaks to a certain audaciousness that might frustrate some but enchant others.
However, not all critics were swayed by its unconventional charm. TheWrap offered a more direct critique, stating, "The film may be unbridled, unfettered and bold, but sometimes those adjectives aren’t complimentary. You can boldly make the greatest movie of all time and you can boldly walk face-first into brick wall. At least Schnabel’s wall has pretty pictures on it." This particularly vivid analogy encapsulates the feeling that while the film strives for artistic bravery, it might stumble in its execution, with its visual strengths sometimes overshadowing its narrative coherence. Little White Lies delivered an even more blunt assessment, concluding that "Schnabel’s film isn’t even entertaining enough to count as a compelling disaster," indicating a complete lack of engagement for some reviewers.
This broad spectrum of critical thought underscores 'In the Hand of Dante' as a work that defies easy categorization. It's a film that clearly took risks, and while those risks didn't universally pay off with critics, they certainly resulted in a cinematic experience that is anything but forgettable. For viewers intrigued by bold artistic statements and stellar performances, its arrival on Netflix presents an opportunity to form their own opinions on this much-discussed drama.
Why 'In the Hand of Dante' Demands Attention
The arrival of 'In the Hand of Dante' on Netflix is a significant event for global audiences for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its star power is undeniable. With names like Oscar Isaac, Gerard Butler, Jason Momoa, Gal Gadot, Al Pacino, and even Martin Scorsese in acting roles, the film commands attention purely based on its cast. This assembly of talent ensures a wide appeal across various demographics and promises performances that are inherently engaging.
Secondly, the film’s unique premise, blending a contemporary crime thriller with a historical drama centered around one of literature's most important works, offers a distinct narrative experience. It’s not every day that a manuscript from the 14th century becomes the focal point of a modern mob drama, making 'In the Hand of Dante' a refreshingly original entry in the streaming landscape. The dual portrayal of Dante by Oscar Isaac further adds layers of artistic ambition that distinguish it from more conventional fare.
Finally, the critical reception, though divided, only amplifies its intrigue. A film described as "bonkers" and "wildly uneven" but simultaneously "never dull" and "glorious to look at" is bound to pique curiosity. In an era of abundant content, a movie that provokes such strong, contrasting opinions often generates more discussion and viewership than a universally acclaimed but predictable release. For Netflix, 'In the Hand of Dante' represents a bold, high-profile addition to its diverse catalog, promising to spark conversation among its worldwide subscriber base.
Frequently Asked Questions About 'In the Hand of Dante'
What is 'In the Hand of Dante' about?
'In the Hand of Dante' follows a dual narrative revolving around the original manuscript of Dante Alighieri's 'Divine Comedy'. One storyline sees the manuscript stolen from the Vatican and falling into the hands of a New York mob boss, eventually reaching a character named Nick Tosches (Oscar Isaac). The other storyline depicts Dante Alighieri (also Oscar Isaac) creating the masterpiece in 14th-century Italy.
Who stars in 'In the Hand of Dante'?
The film features a star-studded cast including Oscar Isaac (Nick Tosches/Dante), Gerard Butler (Louie/Pope Boniface VIII), Jason Momoa (Rosario), John Malkovich (Joe Black), Gal Gadot (Giulietta/Gemma Donati), Al Pacino (Uncle Carmine), and Martin Scorsese (Isaiah).
Is 'In the Hand of Dante' based on a book?
Yes, 'In the Hand of Dante' is adapted from the 2002 novel of the same name by Nick Tosches.
What do critics say about 'In the Hand of Dante'?
Critics have offered mixed reviews. While some called it "bonkers," "wildly uneven," and "a folly that pulsates with life," often praising its visuals and engaging nature, others found it to be a "compelling disaster" or a bold artistic attempt that ultimately missed the mark. It holds a 38% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
The Bigger Picture: A Bold Experiment for the Streaming Age
'In the Hand of Dante' represents a fascinating entry into the ever-expanding world of streaming content. It’s a film that clearly prioritizes artistic ambition over conventional narrative structure, leveraging a remarkable ensemble cast to tell a sprawling, intergenerational story. For Netflix, acquiring such a distinctive, critically divisive, yet undeniably high-profile project underscores its strategy of offering a wide range of content that can appeal to diverse tastes and spark significant cultural conversations.
In an age where viewers are constantly seeking fresh and thought-provoking material, 'In the Hand of Dante' stands out. Its arrival on a platform with Netflix's global reach means that millions will now have the opportunity to experience its "bonkers" charm and form their own opinions on whether this bold cinematic experiment ultimately succeeds or crashes spectacularly. Regardless of individual verdict, the film’s unique blend of literary history, crime drama, and star power ensures it will be a talking point, cementing its place as a notable addition to the streaming giant's 2024 lineup.
