Vermiglio

To say this was a beautiful film is an understatement. Maura Delpero does such an incredible job of taking us back to the 1940s when WW II was ending to a quiet, village nestled in the Italian Alps as we become a part of the Graziadei family. We watch as their joy, sadness, and secrets unfold. The Cinematography work by Mikhail Krichman was spectacular! The cast was quite strong especially that of Tommaso Ragno, Martina Scrinzi, and Carlotta Gamba. I do not speak Italian but following the story with subtitles was a breeze and didn't detract from this film. All you have to do is watch the actors eyes and mannerisms and you feel what they are going through. The sign of a great film.

Vermiglio (2024), directed by Maura Delpero, presents a quiet and reflective look at life in a remote mountain village in the Italian Alps during the final days of World War II. The story follows the arrival of Pietro, a deserter, into the family of the local teacher. As he becomes entangled in their lives, particularly falling in love with the teacher's eldest daughter, the village's delicate balance is disrupted, leading to a series of emotional upheavals.

The film's strength lies in its meticulous attention to historical detail and its authentic depiction of the time period. Delpero's anthropological approach to storytelling highlights the customs, traditions, and harsh realities of life in rural Italy during the war, with the seasons unfolding as a metaphor for the passing of time and the trials faced by the villagers. The cinematography, which captures the rugged beauty of the Trentino Alps, enhances the atmosphere, grounding the story in the physical and emotional isolation of the characters.

The performances are solid, with Tommaso Ragno and Roberta Rovelli providing strong portrayals of characters who, while deeply affected by the events around them, must endure their personal dramas in silence, shaped by the social and cultural constraints of the era. The theme of resignation permeates the narrative, as characters quietly endure their fates - from the young, pregnant widow to the daughter who feels "forced" into religious life. This pervasive sense of acceptance, however, diminishes the emotional connection one might feel with the characters. The lack of agency among the individuals, who silently bear their burdens without protest, creates an emotional distance that, at times, undercuts the film's impact.

While Vermiglio succeeds in painting a vivid picture of life in the post-war years, its slower pace and emotionally restrained characters may leave some viewers feeling disconnected. The weight of historical accuracy and social constraints, while authentic, can sometimes stifle the emotional depth that might have made the story more compelling.

Rating: 7/10. A reflective and historically rich film that captures the struggles of post-war life but is ultimately hindered by its emotional detachment.

As a fan of historical films, Vermiglio really stood out to me with its immersive take on the past. The movie does a remarkable job of transporting you to a different time, blending historical accuracy with an intriguing mystery. The setting and costumes feel authentic, adding a layer of depth that makes the world come alive in a way that's both captivating and thought-provoking.

The plot unfolds at a steady pace, revealing its secrets bit by bit, and while it may be a bit slow at times, the performances keep you invested. The lead actor does an excellent job portraying a character caught between the weight of history and personal turmoil, and I found myself connecting with them on a deeper level.

The film offers a unique lens on history, not just as a backdrop but as a force that shapes the characters' actions and decisions. It's this combination of historical context and personal drama that makes Vermiglio an engaging watch for anyone who enjoys films that offer both a captivating story and a rich historical setting. Although it's not flawless, it's definitely a worthwhile experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Directed by Maura Delpero, "Vermiglio" made its debut at the Venice Film Festival in 2024, highlighting the director's unique storytelling approach and her skill in crafting intricate narratives. The film serves as a poignant examination of identity, belonging, and the complex relationships that shape our lives.

Set over a pivotal year and divided into four chapters, each representing a different season, this film is a visually stunning experience. In the waning days of World War II, a Sicilian deserter arrives in a secluded village in the Italian Alps, where he is taken in by a local schoolteacher who has three daughters. His presence will irrevocably change the dynamics of both the village and the family.

A notable aspect of the film is its cinematography, which beautifully captures the lush landscapes of the Italian countryside, adding emotional resonance to the story. Delpero's direction is both empathetic and perceptive, allowing the characters to develop naturally throughout the film. The performances, especially from the lead actress Martina Scrinzi, are powerful and layered, effectively portraying the protagonist's internal struggles. The film thoughtfully addresses themes of nostalgia and the quest for identity, encouraging viewers to contemplate their own notions of home and belonging.

Nevertheless, "Vermiglio" does have its shortcomings. At times, the pacing may feel inconsistent, with certain scenes extending longer than necessary, potentially challenging the audience's engagement. Furthermore, while the film's thematic exploration is praiseworthy, some viewers might perceive the narrative as somewhat predictable, missing the unexpected twists that could enhance its overall impact.

It's a family drama set from 1944 to 1946 in Vermiglio, a tiny remote Italian village in South Tyrol. It follows the poor Graziadei family headed by Cesare (Tommaso Ragno) and Adele (Robert Rovelli). Cesare is educated and the village's elementary school teacher. At the film's beginning, they have nine children. The four oldest have the most significant roles. Dino (Patrick Gardner) struggles with his father, who is disappointed in him. Lucia (Martina Scrinzi) is the oldest daughter, followed by Ada (Rachele Potrich) and Flavia (Anna Thaler). The younger boys are chatterboxes who help move the story along, but I couldn't remember them by name. Attilio (Santiago Fondevilla), a cousin, has come back from the war accompanied by a friend and deserter from Sicily, Pietro Riso (Giuseppe De Domenico). Pietro and Lucia fall in love and become married.

"Vermiglio" follows the events that unfold and reveal secrets about various family members, some of which have devastating consequences. The film does end with a hint of hope.

"Vermiglio" has spectacular cinematography that helps the viewer languish in the movie's slow pace. A family story unfolds at its own pace. We learn much from the children's nighttime chatter as they are all scrunched in three beds in a single bedroom. The thrust is family survival after a particular crisis. "Vermiiglio" is a very moving film with a believable well-told story.