Daring Exploration of Self in 70s Rome

Read Time:3 Minute, 39 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
L'immensità
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Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Emanuele Crialese
Writer(s): Emanuele Crialese, Francesca Manieri, Vittorio Moroni
Cast: Penélope Cruz, Luana Giuliani, Vincenzo Amato, Patrizio Francioni, Maria Chiara Goretti, Penelope Nieto Conti, Alvia Reale, India Santella, Mariangela Granelli, Carlo Gallo
Where To Watch: VOD July 11, 2023; on DVD/Blu-ray September 12

RAVING REVIEW: L'IMMENSITÀ takes us back to the streets of Rome in the 70s, revealing a captivating family drama starring Penélope Cruz and Vincenzo Amato. As Clara and Felice, their characters are entangled in a world governed by outdated societal expectations, a testament to the changing times they are living in.

The drama unveils a maze of tangled relationships, with Luana Giuliani playing Andrew (nicknamed Adri by his parents), who embarks on a soul-searching journey where he lives “an outsized, vibrantly-realized vision of a world where he gets to live as the boy he knows himself to be. Without an accepted vocabulary for talking about his transgender identity, Andrew tells adults that he’s an alien from another galaxy and makes a habit of running away to pursue a local Roma girl who accepts his boyhood at face value.”

Clara and Felice's marital bond seems bulletproof, anchored by their children. But the truth comes bubbling to the surface to expose the reality beneath, a whirlwind of dissatisfaction and infidelity tearing their bond apart at the seams. The turbulent marital dynamics leave an indelible mark on Andrew, throwing him further into his identity crisis.

Director Emanuele Crialese navigates the unraveling of family ties and undercurrents of societal norms. He highlights Felice's staunch patriarchal ideologies and Clara's desperate attempts to keep their family from sinking. His lens turns these swirling undercurrents into a compelling backdrop, allowing the children's tales to unfold gracefully.

L'IMMENSITÀ, however, transcends the realms of a conventional film. It becomes an introspective journey through the world, as seen by Andrew. His untainted perspective adds unique hues to the hardships he faces. His parents' stormy relationship fuels his retreat into his imaginative sanctuary. His aspiration to swirl in the limelight of a TV show becomes his escape, a captivating glimpse into a young individual's mind piecing together the puzzle of life.

L'IMMENSITÀ elegantly explores the delicate topic of gender identity, a melody beautifully composed without shying away from the dynamics of the family. The film is a reflective piece for Crialese, mirroring his personal experiences and struggles. It highlights society's paradox, where serious adult indiscretions are nonchalantly dismissed while a quest for personal identity is scrutinized and stigmatized.

In this whirlwind, Clara emerges as Andrew's ally. Their bond transcends the ties of motherhood, lighting up the screen with a warmth that resonates with viewers. Their silent understandings and unspoken words break the chains of societal norms. Clara, the embodiment of resilience and a beacon of strength comes to life through Cruz's captivating performance. Her interactions with Andrew inject a vibrancy into the film, connecting with the audience profoundly.

L'IMMENSITÀ explores themes of self-identity, familial ties, and societal pressure, making it more than just a film – it is an experience that immerses viewers in its world. This cinematic journey is poised to leave an indelible mark on moviegoers as a stark reminder of the courage it takes to stay true to oneself.

L'IMMENSITÀ is here to take you on an unforgettable journey through the winding lanes of 1970s Rome and into the depths of a young boy's courageous exploration of self. With an extraordinary ensemble, heart-tugging narrative, and expert direction, this film is a viewing experience that will resonate with anyone who dares to defy societal norms and be true to their identity.

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[photo courtesy of MUSIC BOX FILMS, BRIGHT IRIS FILM CO.]