Although the term “Felliniesque” came to mean “an exaggerated, surreal phantasmagoria” this small, austere allegory, unfolds in a unique, realistic setting. A basement “with history” where in front, of an unseen RAI crew, we watch the rehearsal of a professional orchestra, disintegrate into chaos. The musicians redefine their role in the ensemble; express rational or absurd trade union demands; channel their indignation towards authoritarianism—and of course the maestro’s impotence, in a democratic polyphony that turns into a cacophony. While the maestro’s monologue, only adds salt to injury—rehashing rust-covered, aristocratic theories in glaring opposition to art’s labourers. One of Fellini’s most pessimistic films, a clear-cut critique on the decline of Italian politics and society’s Fascistization—which at the time seemed out of control.