Christ Stopped at Eboli (1979)

Based on the memoir of Carlo Levi, who was arrested in 1935 by Mussolini's regime for his anti-fascist activities. Carlo is forced into exile to a small, isolated village in a remote region of Southern Italy, in the region of Lucania which is known today as Basilicata. The village is populated by inhabitants who barely survive on the meager harvest of the unyielding land. Eboli, the closest train station, is the last outpost of civilization (such as it is) before entering a world that has changed very little since the Middle Ages. Since the local doctors are not interested in peasants and not trusted by them, Carlo begins to help them. Over time, he learns to appreciate the beauty and wisdom of the peasants, and to overcome his isolation.