Final answer:
For Giannetti, the limitations of realism do not provide a suitable framework for understanding formalist movies, which require a different theoretical approach.
Step-by-step explanation:
For Giannetti, theories of realism are indeed not considered particularly useful in understanding the complexities of formalist movies. Realism focuses on representing reality as it is, whereas formalism is more concerned with the stylistic and structural aspects of a film. The statement suggests that formalist films, which are more abstract and stylistically rigorous, cannot be adequately interpreted through a lens that privileges a strict imitation of reality as the ultimate goal. Therefore, in the context of film studies and criticism, the exploration of formalist films requires a different theoretical approach that can accommodate their unique characteristics.