Synopsis
Giovanna Mezzogiorno plays a wife and mother (also named Giovanna) who is frustratedand ground down by her lot in life. Her job is depressing, her marriage has lost all its spark, andshe lives in a building that echoes with the furious battles of dysfunctional couples. She is alsofascinated by the man she sees across the way, whose life in all respects seems to be the oppositeof hers. The catalyst for change in her life is the arrival of Simone, an elderly amnesiac whom her…usband brings home. Giovanna is at first resentful, but soon a bond grows between her andSimone, and she will soon act to take hold of her dreams.
The case calls this a romance, but given that the opening scene (set in 1943) features a brutalfight and throat slashing, this should serve notice that this isn’t Bridget Jones territory.The film is beautifully shot, delicately paced, and the camera worships the face of Mezzogiorno,who can speak volumes without uttering a single word.
Audio
The 5.1 mix is very sensitive, by which I mean that, while there isn’t a constantenvironmental effect, the surround moments are extremely well chosen (acting almost in the waya musical score does to underline the emotional content of the pictures). The placement isexcellent, and the volume, whether soft or very loud, always appropriate. The music is given afine mix too, with swirling, evocative vocals on the title track. The left-right separation isexcellent, too.
Video
The 2.35:1 anamorphic widescreen transfer is blessed with very rich colours and fine blacksand contrasts. The flesh tones are excellent, and the image is very sharp. There is no visible grainor edge enhancement. All in all a pleasure to watch.
Special Features
A whole dozen trailers here, but that’s it. The menu is basic.
Closing Thoughts
A quiet film, with fully rounded characters. Fine work.
Special Features List
- Trailers
