I Can Quit Whenever I Want 3: Ad Honorem (2017)

Overview

"I Can Quit Whenever I Want 3: Ad Honorem" forms the final link in a black comedy series that has drawn attention in recent Italian cinema. Bearing the signature of Sicilio Sironi, this trilogy features an absurd yet remarkably realistic narrative about academics getting entangled in the drug world. The journey of the characters we followed in the series' first two films ("Immacolata" and "Masterclass") reaches its conclusion with this third and final installment. The production has garnered significant attention in Italy, receiving positive reactions from both critics and audiences. Featuring Francesco Acquaroli in the cast, the film once again demonstrates the Italian film industry's mastery in blending comedy and crime genres. Standing out with its character-driven narrative and socially critical subtext, it emerges as a production that goes beyond an ordinary crime comedy.

Plot

The film continues the series' storyline about a group of scientists who, unable to find sufficient career opportunities in the academic world, struggle to survive by producing and selling synthetic drugs. In the third film, our characters must now face the consequences of the system they built. This group of scientists, beginning to pay the price for decisions made in the past, grapples with both the dangers brought on by their illegal activities and conflicts among themselves. The story handles the final act of the journey from academic failure and desperation to an illegal empire, centered on the characters' moral questioning and personal transformations. As throughout the series, this film also draws an ironic parallel between the structural problems in Italy's academic system and the inner workings of the organized crime world.

Why Watch It?

This film offers a narrative depth that will surprise those approaching it expecting an ordinary crime comedy. As the series' final film, it satisfyingly resolves the character arcs established in the previous two productions. Successfully applying the Italian cinema tradition of black humor to a modern context, the production creates an original flavor by blending criticism of academia with the world of illegal enterprise. The contrast between the characters' intellectual depth and the absurd situations they find themselves in stands out as one of the film's strongest aspects. Additionally, the opportunity to see strong names from the Italian acting tradition together is another element that makes the film worth watching. Performances by character actors like Francesco Acquaroli contribute to the film's atmosphere and enhance the story's credibility. For those wishing to complete the series as a whole, this finale offers a satisfying closure.

Who Is It For?

This production is primarily an ideal choice for viewers who love the black comedy genre and are familiar with Italian cinema. For those who have watched the first two films in the series, this final piece becomes an almost mandatory viewing experience. Viewers seeking a more intellectual and ironic approach to the crime world, different from traditional gangster films, will find what they're looking for in this production. Viewers interested in the realities of academic life and curious about criticism of the university system will also find intriguing subtext in the film. However, for those uncomfortable watching foreign-language films with subtitles, or who prefer fast-paced, action-heavy productions, this film may not meet expectations. It's fair to say this is a production designed for somewhat more patient and attentive viewers who can appreciate the subtle nuances of black humor.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. It offers a strong final narrative that satisfyingly concludes the series' character development.

2. The performances of the Italian cast enrich the film, especially thanks to the contribution of the character actors.

3. It originally blends criticism of academia with the crime comedy genre.

Cons:

1. Those who haven't watched the series' previous films may experience a lack of context.

2. Pacing lulls in some scenes may occasionally distract the viewer's attention.

Genre and Tone

The film is positioned at the intersection of black comedy and crime drama genres. In tone, it embraces Italian cinema's characteristic ironic and sarcastic approach. Tragicomic elements blend with the absurd situations the characters find themselves in, offering the viewer an experience that both amuses and provokes thought. The film's atmosphere skillfully balances a realistic depiction of the crime world with a parody of academic life. At times, serious and tense moments are softened with black humor, allowing the viewer room to breathe. This tonal balance has been consistently maintained throughout the series and is sustained with the same success in the final film.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The film runs at an average feature-length runtime and has a structure aimed at keeping the viewer's attention consistently engaged. While the narrative flows smoothly, scenes that emphasize character depth occasionally require a slower pace. In terms of viewing experience, having followed the series' previous films provides a great advantage; character relationships and references to past events become more meaningful in this context. For those who prefer watching with subtitles, the fast and sometimes slang-heavy dialogue may require attention. Overall, for an attentive and enjoyable viewing experience, it's recommended to watch it in a calm setting, free from distracting elements.

Similar Productions

For those who enjoy this film, several productions offering a similar flavor and tone stand out. The "Breaking Bad" series is the first example that comes to mind due to its thematic similarity in portraying an academic figure's entry into the crime world. "The Big Lebowski" can offer similar enjoyment with its black humor tone. From Italian cinema, the "Gomorrah" series offers a different interpretation of the organized crime world and can be interesting in terms of cultural context. "Suburra" can also be recommended as a successful example in the Italian crime drama genre. Additionally, the series' first two films, "Smetto Quando Voglio" and "Smetto Quando Voglio: Masterclass," are must-watch productions for fully understanding this final film.

Final Assessment

"I Can Quit Whenever I Want 3: Ad Honorem" is a successful final film that offers a valuable contribution to Italian cinema's black comedy tradition, satisfyingly concluding the series' story. Thanks to its character depth, strong acting performances, and the ironic parallel it draws between academia and the crime world, it succeeds in going beyond an ordinary crime comedy. Offering an unmissable closure for fans of the series, the production also provides new viewers with an opportunity to discover a different side of Italian cinema. Overall, it can be regarded as a quality production recommendable for those seeking a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.