Lost in Translation, Found in Bonding

Read Time:3 Minute, 16 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Io sto bene
–

Genre: Drama
Year Released: 2022
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Donato Rotunno
Writer(s): Donato Rotunno
Cast: Renato Carpentieri, Sara Serraiocco, Alessio Lapice, Marie Jung, Vittorio Nastri, Maziar Firouzi, Luigi De Razza, Pitt Simon, Jules Werner
Language: Italian, Luxembourgish, French, English with English subtitles
Where To Watch: makes its North American premiere on SVOD service Indiepix Unlimited on September 15, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: Welcome, dear readers, to the vibrant streets of Luxembourg, artfully captured in IO STO BENE, where the unexpected occurs most delightfully. Picture this: Antonio, a seasoned Italian expatriate portrayed by Renato Carpentieri, has his paths crossed with Leo, an enthusiastic artist, thanks to Sara Serraiocco's spirited performance. Their worlds clash due to a mundane car accident. Talk about fate and have a quirky sense of humor!

Delving into this film means stepping away from the familiar European scenes we often see. It's time to bid farewell to Germany and Belgium and let Luxembourg dazzle you. As Antonio grapples with the Luxembourgish language, leading to some humorous situations, he fondly recollects his cherished moments with Mady, gracefully brought to life by Marie Jung. When you think you've figured it out, the narrative takes a turn you won’t be expecting. Leo's modern challenges in her budding career and personal life stand in stark contrast, reminding us that every era has its battles.

Diving deeper, migration emerges as the beating heart of IO STO BENE. Writer/Director Donato Rotunno paints a poignant picture of the ever-present human desire to seek a brighter tomorrow. As viewers journey through Antonio's nostalgic memories, replete with dreams and his unwavering love for Mady, they will feel a tug on their heartstrings. Contrast this with Leo's life, bursting with ambition, doubts, and the anticipation of motherhood, and you've got yourself a balanced, emotional cocktail. The undeniable chemistry between Serraiocco and Carpentieri is a poignant feature of the film. Their dynamic on screen is a testament to the art of genuine cinematic bonding.

Having previously woven stories of migration, IO STO BENE fits snugly into Rotunno's repertoire, albeit with a refreshing twist. The ensemble cast, especially the commendable performances by Lapice and Jung, becomes a highlight reel of its own.

Ultimately, IO STO BENE is an ode to human connections, their dreams, struggles, and the timeless story of migration. The diverse languages enrich the film, reflecting Europe's soul. A submission to the Oscars for "International Feature Film" isn't an everyday affair, emphasizing Rotunno's adeptness in crafting stories that transcend generational boundaries.

Redefining cinematic experience, IO STO BENE invites seasoned movie-goers and those dipping their toes into the film world. Embark on this journey and let the stories of Antonio and Leo whisk you away. Enjoy the show!

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of INDIEPIX]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #WGA #SAGAFTRAStrong #WGAStrong