It’s about time I saw an Italian film I actually like.
I liked this because the high voltage histrionics and rapid shouting I’ve seen and heard in previous Italian films, were here toned or tuned down.
Thats more than likely due to the presence of gentle Gianni Di Gregorio in the lead role. In fact, his calming influence is all over this film: he directed it and co-wrote it as well as acted in it.
And he’s good in it, very pleasant, very pleasing, being a very affecting – if initially, put upon – 60 something Italian son to his 90 something Italian mother.
The heart of this film lies in its warmth and light tone.
The old ladies are depicted respectfully; they aren’t made too dotty or too cantankerous; they aren’t overly sentimentalised or stereotyped; they feel like real people (which they were, being non-actors), vivid with their own personality, still viable.
I liked the semi-improvised spontaneous feel of the dialogues and interactions between Gianni and these old ladies; nothing was stretched too far or made too implausible; they weren’t having to act too far away from themselves, or adopt contrived personas.
It all felt totally natural, and truthful, nothing made up or made overly melodramatic.
I got a feel for how Italians feel when they’re being together; the warmth of spirit, the simple need for affection of connection.
How cherishable life must be if you are an old Italian Mamma, and you have such a dutiful son as Gianni, being such a good boy.
Dir: Gianni Di Gregorio, Italy
7/10
Windows on the World 