"San Babila ore 20: Un Delitto Inutile" is a neorealist Italian crime drama that unfolds in Milan during the 1970s. The film centers around a real-life event-the senseless murder of a young bank guard during a robbery at San Babila Square. The plot delves into the social, economic, and political issues of the time, offering a gritty portrayal of urban decay and the struggles of working-class individuals.

The performances in the film are raw and authentic, capturing the desperation and hopelessness of the characters. The cast, led by a young actor, has delivered compelling portrayals, effectively conveying the anguish and turmoil of their respective roles.

The cinematography of "San Babila ore 20: Un Delitto Inutile" is characterized by its stark and unembellished visual style. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting adds to the film's documentary-like quality, immersing the audience in the harsh reality of the story.

The film's portrayal of the social and political unrest in Italy during the 1970s is both poignant and thought-provoking. It unflinchingly depicts the grim reality of urban life and the struggles of the working class. The story's relevance to the socio-political climate of the time gives it a lasting impact, resonating with audiences long after the credits roll.

The film centers on a group of young neo-fascists who, driven by a misguided sense of purpose and anger, commit a senseless murder in Piazza San Babila. The plot unfolds over the course of a day, capturing the escalating tension and reckless behavior of these disillusioned youths. The narrative structure is effective in maintaining a tight focus on the characters' descent into violence, but at times it feels overly simplistic and lacks deeper exploration of their motivations.

The performances in "San Babila Ore 20" are a mixed bag. The young cast, including Daniele Asti, Pietro Brambilla, and Brigitte Skay, deliver raw and sometimes unsettling portrayals of their characters. Their performances convey the volatility and confusion of youth, but occasionally fall into melodrama. Veteran actors such as Lino Capolicchio and Giuliano Esperati provide a steadier presence, anchoring the film with their more nuanced portrayals.

The cinematography by Giulio Albonico effectively captures the gritty, urban landscape of Milan. The use of handheld cameras and natural lighting enhances the film's documentary-like feel, immersing the audience in the chaotic environment. The visual style aligns well with the film's themes, creating an atmosphere of unease and unpredictability. However, the occasional shaky camera work can be disorienting and detracts from the viewing experience.

"San Babila Ore 20" succeeds in portraying the dark side of youthful rebellion and the dangerous allure of extremist ideologies. Its depiction of senseless violence serves as a poignant commentary on the sociopolitical climate of 1970s Italy. However, the film's impact is diminished by its one-dimensional characters and sometimes heavy-handed approach to its subject matter. While it is a significant piece of Italian cinema for its historical and cultural context, it doesn't quite reach the heights of more critically acclaimed works of the genre.