I Fidanzati (The Fiances)
Directed by Ermanno Olmi
Written by Ermanno Olmi
1963/Italy
22 Dicembre/Sicilia Cinematografica/Titanus
Repeat viewing/Netflix rental
[box] “Absence makes the heart grow fonder, but it sure makes the rest of you lonely.” ― Charles M. Schulz[/box]
This is a charming combination of a unique kind of love story with tender travelogue of Sicily.
Milanese Giovanni has accepted an 18-month transfer to his company’s plant in Sicily. It will mean a promotion for him and separation from his long-time fiancee Liliana. She is now barely speaking to him. They part on very tense terms.
In Sicily, the lonely Giovanni begins to pine for his sweetheart. The two begin a tentative correspondence in which they both reveal the feeling that had been surpressed by over-familiarity. Giovanni also explores the wonders of an alien way of life.
It’s a simple story, sweetly told. I was thinking I could have used more love story but I wouldn’t have wanted to miss any of the gorgeous shots of Sicily either.
Clip – this was my favorite part!
