Impossible not to love
Zoe and Tommaso have been together for ten years: he a published novelist; she an ambitious executive in the video-gaming industry. They live the enviable life of the child-free professional couple in Rome.
However Tommaso has a secret: he is the author behind the successful magazine advice column anonymously written by “Gabriel Garcia Marquez”. When Zoe writes to “Marquez” to discuss wanting to leave her relationship, she doesn’t realise she is writing to Tommaso. Meanwhile Tommaso’s best friend Umberto is having relationship issues of his own, as his wife of 20 years Elena spends all her time being Mayor of Rome, leaving Umberto feeling unwanted.
Breaking Up in Rome (Lasciarsi un giorno a Roma) is directed by, and stars, Edoardo Leo. He is also one of the co-writers along with Marco Bonini and Damiano Bruè. The screenplay is generally crisp and witty, delivering a sophisticated romantic dramedy, but would have benefitted from the addition of a female voice.
The four stars: Marta Nieto as Zoe; Stefano Fresi as Umberto; Claudia Gerini as Elena; and Leo himself as Tommaso, all throw themselves into their characters and the wonderful language of the script. Leo keeps the direction controlled, never allowing the action to seep into corn territory. The occasional tear-jerker moments are gently pulled-back with ironic humour.
Breaking Up in Rome is about being in love in Rome, and about being in love WITH Rome. The city is the fifth major character in this narrative, and not just a beautiful backdrop. In one scene, for instance, Tommaso picks Zoe up from work, unexpectedly and says “Let’s go for a walk”. When Zoe seems taken aback he explains that although they live in Rome, they never really see much of it (except for the inside of restaurants).
This is a joyous, funny, often moving, piece of work, which is impossible not to love. It also explores some interesting themes and ideas around relationships, such as whether knowing someone well is enough, or is love something more (or less) than that? Is love entirely necessary to a happy relationship? And can you have a good break-up?
Breaking Up in Rome screens as part of the ST. ALi Italian Film Festival from September 21st to October 16th at Palace Nova Eastend and Prospect.
Click here for further details, and to book tickets.
More News
