The first time I saw this movie I didn’t really dig it. A few years later (aka now) I decided to give it a second shot. I do think more highly of it now, but not that much higher. Then again, is it fair to say such things? Satyricon is pure candy for the eyes, but one could complain about the story which isn’t fair to do. The story this is based on only survived in fragments, so it might seem a little unfair, or even pretentious, if Fellini decided to fill in the gaps with his imagination. Sure it would have made the movie flow better, but there’s something about this fragmented work that just sticks with you long after you see it.

Satyricon is one of those movies that I will never forget. The lavish set designs are absolutely gorgeous, and Fellini does a great job directing the cast. I have never felt more awkward watching a movie, but Satyricon does just that for me. While the people are prancing and dancing about you can always spot at least one person who is staring directly at the viewer, reminding him/her exactly what they are: a spectator. Fellini shows us some of the most disgusting people to ever be seen in cinema, pre-Pink Flamingos, of course.