15 Amore

15 Amore is a unique, poignant, and deeply moving Australian drama set during the pivotal period of World War II. Released in 1998, this film is a testament to the power of love, the struggles of war, and the triumph of the human spirit. The movie was written and directed by Maurice Murphy and stars Lisa Hensley, Steve Bastoni, and Domenic Galati - a trio of powerhouse performers who provide standout performances.

The plot of 15 Amore is grounded in the harsh realities of war-torn 1944, and it artfully juxtaposes playing the game of tennis with the game of war. Lisa Hensley stars as Dorothy, a housewife stuck in an emotional tug-of-war, enduring the uncertainty and difficulties of her husband living away at war. Meanwhilst, her day to day life is spent caring for her three children and managing the household.

Much of the story unfolds in a secluded sanctuary amongst the menace of a war backdrop - a grand estate in Melbourne, Australia. The estate has been transformed into a temporary refuge for Italian prisoners of war, including Alfredo (Steve Bastoni) and Joseph (Domenic Galati). They are the antithesis of the conventional rugged and brutish prisoners of war - instead, they are gentle, educated, and come with their own unique stories that complicate their characters and our perceptions of them as simply 'enemy combatants'.

Their existence is colorfully punctuated by their friendly tennis matches with Dorothy, with the net serving not only as a physical but also a metaphorical barrier between them - a barrier of different worlds, loyalties, and obligations. These engaging, seemingly innocuous games form a significant chunk of the narrative groundwork, gradually turning into pivotal turning points that steer the narrative in unexpected ways. It is through these encounters the characters establish deep, multifaceted relationships that challenge their morals and values.

Lisa Hensley's portrayal of Dorothy is a masterclass in subtle yet powerful acting. The actress wholly encompasses her character's struggles and evolution in a way that is truly captivating. She imbues Dorothy with a strength and resilience that makes her an unforgettable protagonist, carrying the emotional weight of the film on her shoulders with grace. Steve Bastoni and Domenic Galati are equally efficacious in their roles as the Italian POWs, captivatingly showcasing their individual emotional journeys while forging an unusual bond with Dorothy.

One striking feature of 15 Amore is its simplicity; it doesn't rely heavily on dramatic plot twists or high-stakes battle scenes – instead, the movie finds its tension in the emotional connections between characters, the subtle shifts in their relationships, and the nuanced portrayal of their internal moral conflicts. This simplicity is where its strength lies – the narrative steadily draws the viewers into the complex dynamics unfolding amongst its characters and never lets go.

Moreover, even though war serves as a dramatic backdrop in the film, the director has developed a deft touch by avoiding the clichéd scenes of strife and bloodshed. Instead, Murphy focuses on the human stories that often get lost amongst the broader narrative of war – the simple, humanistic elements – love, friendship, and personal growth.

With a simple yet profound narrative, outstanding performances, and beautiful cinematography that skillfully captures the contrasts and contradictions of the time, 15 Amore is a cinematic gem. It beautifully balances humor and heartbreak, love and loss, subtly challenging viewers' initial perceptions and leading them through a range of emotions.

The title 15 Amore is symbolic, drawing from the game of tennis where '15' represents the first point scored in the game - symbolizing the start of something, perhaps a glimmer of hope or love ('amore' in Italian) amidst devastating circumstances.

In this careful exploration of unusual friendships, uneasy alliances, and forbidden feelings against a backdrop of war, 15 Amore offers a relatable, humanistic perspective. This film shines, not just as a testament to the strength of the human spirit, but as a reminder of all the dimensions of humanity that persist even in times of war and adversity and of the unexpected places one might find love – and ultimately, hope.