Big Heart of Girls

Big Heart of Girls (2011) is a charming Italian romantic comedy directed by Pupi Avati. Starring Cesare Cremonini and Micaela Ramazzotti, the film serves up an engaging blend of romance, comedy, and a thoughtful exploration of the human condition. The ensemble cast which also includes the talents of Gianni Cavina, Erika Blanc, Manuela Morabito, Gisella Sofio, Massimo Bonetti, Isabelle Adriani, Stefania Barca, Rita Carlini, Sydne Rome, and others, helps bring vibrant depth to this cinematic exploration of love, heartache, and personal growth.

The narrative is set in the bucolic Italian countryside of the early 1900s, establishing an idyllic backdrop for the ensuing story. The plot centers on a young, ambitious man, Angelo (played by Cesare Cremonini), who has just returned to his small hometown after spending time in the big city. With dreams bigger than the village itself, Angelo aims to charm his way into earning a considerable dowry through marriage.

Things begin to take a turn when he meets his antithesis in Francesca (Micaela Ramazzotti), a woman of quiet strength and unwavering spirit. Francesca is the Big Heart of Girls, a young woman profoundly tied to her family and her land; she is the daughter of the house where Angelo is the tenant. As the daughter of a tenant farmer, she has shouldered much responsibility and hardship, and her life is a stark contrast to Angelo's city-bred sophistication. But it is this very contrast that sparks a romantic tension between them.

However, the romantic storyline doesn't adorn a cookie-cutter framework. Big Heart of Girls takes this familiar premise and crafts it into a nuanced, genuine tale of love and growth. The film uses humor, witty dialogue, and a sharp eye for societal norms of the era to tell its story, sweeping its audience into a world of rural bliss, patriarchal traditions, and heartfelt passion.

Amidst the budding romance, the film takes time to explore the societal issues and values of the time. It exposes the dowry system and its implications on women who are viewed more as commodities than individuals, a stark contrast to the traditional romantic-comedy films. Francesca is a strongly independent character, who challenges Angelo's plans and the status quo, setting the stage for engaging character dynamics and conflicts.

The direction by Pupi Avati and the screenplay by Avati and Antonio Avati lend an authentic touch to the narrative. The picturesque Italian countryside, the beautifully maintained authentic period sets, and the vintage costumes add to the visual appeal. The score complements the film's earthy, vintage mood, subtly accentuating the twists and turns of the storyline.

Cesare Cremonini's spirited performance as Angelo is undoubtedly a standout. He portrays the nuances of a young man's ambition, charm, and vulnerability with commendable skill. Micaela Ramazzotti is equally impressive as Francesca, bringing grace and strength to her character. The chemistry between Cremonini and Ramazzotti is palpable, making their on-screen romance believable and engaging. The supporting cast, including Gianni Cavina, Erika Blanc, and Manuela Morabito, among others, deliver power-packed performances that add dimension and depth to the story.

In conclusion, Big Heart of Girls offers a refreshing blend of romance, comedy, and drama. Its engaging characters, thoughtful plot, and picturesque setting make it a truly heartwarming watch. It stands as a testament to director Pupi Avati's knack for telling complex, emotional stories with simplicity, grace, and a sense of humor. If you're a fan of Italian cinema or simply love a good romantic-comedy, Big Heart of Girls is a movie you wouldn't want to miss.