Pranzo di Ferragosto [Mid-August Lunch] (2008)

RATING:	80%
FORMAT:	DVD

(Image: http://www.taliesinartscentre.co.uk/)

A beguiling movie about the relationship between mother and son and of the fragile strength of the aged. Despite the trivial annoyances and initial dislike these old people have for one another they discover a solidarity that comes from loneliness, fear of being abandoned by their children and of approaching death. They become fast friends while their kids are generally and comically desperate to be shot of their burdensome elderly mothers - at least for the day.

The slightness of the plot is more than made-up for by the theme of old age and the subtly distinct characterization. However, the film lacks thematic depth and its Cocoon-like milieu would soon peter-out in a longer movie.

There is genuine affection underneath the bitchiness; leading, ultimately, to a good time being had by all. This is a movie that you can literally take your mother to see.

Copyright © 2012 Frank TALKER. Permission granted to reproduce and distribute it in any format; provided that mention of the author’s Weblog (http://franktalker5.blogspot.com/) is included: E-mail notification requested. All other rights reserved.