Cloro

Cloro, an Italian-language film released in 2015, depicts the fascinating journey of a young girl grappling with her life turned upside down after her mother's sudden disappearance. The story centers on Jenny, a 17-year-old synchronized swimmer, whose endearing dreams and ambitions get crushed under the heavy load of her changed existence. Directed by Lamberto Sanfelice, the film features renowned Italian actors Sara Serraiocco as the protagonist and Anatol Sassi, along with Andrea Vergoni in supporting roles.

The film starts by introducing Jenny, who lives in a small seaside town in Italy. She is passionate about synchronized swimming and aspires to compete at the international level. However, her tranquil and predictable life drastically alters when her mother mysteriously disappears, leaving her and her younger brother, Fabrizio, to fend for themselves.

Her father's incapability to bear the brunt of the changed circumstances forces her to abandon her dreams and return home to take care for her younger brother. Jenny, excellently portrayed by Sara Serraiocco, showcases a compelling mix of maturity and naivety as she compartmentalizes her emotions and navigates through the struggles of their everyday life. The training sessions at the swimming pool where she once performed beautifully are replaced by an exhaustive routine of cleaning houses and babysitting gigs.

Cloro is not just the story of loss and hope, but also explores the universal themes of coming-of-age, courage, and resilience. The audience is left to marvel at the protagonist's extraordinary courage as she takes the reins of her turbulent life with grace and bravery, taking care of her brother with an almost maternal instinct, and putting on a brave face to deal with their aloof and emotionally distant father.

Director Lamberto Sanfelice does a commendable job of maintaining a realistic tone throughout the film, allowing the audience to emotionally connect with the characters. He has the splendid ability to capture moments of silences, which often speak louder than words. Sanfelice also beautifully uses the backdrop of the Italian coastline's enchanting beauty to symbolize the striking contrast between Jenny’s dreams and her stark reality.

Sara Serraiocco's masterly performance is central to the film, beautifully portraying Jenny's gamut of emotions - her anger, sadness, hopelessness, and her unfazed determination. She deftly balances Jenny’s inherent teenage vulnerability with her compelled maturity pressed upon by her circumstances. The supporting cast, including Anatol Sassi and Andrea Vergoni, holds the fabric of the narrative together, offering authentic portrayals that give depth and realism to their characters.

Cloro deftly uses the metaphor of synchronized swimming. The art of making splashing waves appear like a well-timed dance mirrors Jenny's journey navigating her chaotic life to find her rhythm. Her strong bond with water throughout the story symbolizes both her past dreams and her potential salvation. The film tenderly explores the theme of dreams and their fragility as they clash with the cruel realities of life, further accentuating the importance of courage, hope, and resilience.

With its striking cinematography, the film paints a beautiful picture of the Italian seaside – its beauty offering a tangible contrast to Jenny's life. The use of natural lighting, combined with the splendid shots of the sea, adds a special layer of depth to the narrative and overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, Cloro is a poignant drama filled with moments of breathtaking beauty that lies in its delicate storytelling and brilliant performances. It is unrestrained and honest in its depiction of a young girl’s transformation from a dreamer to a responsible adult ahead of her years. The narrative is engaging and emotional, drawing in the viewers and allowing them to empathetically connect to the protagonist’s journey. It’s a solemn reminder of the fragility of dreams in the face of harsh realities, showcasing the strength and resilience of its characters. Driven by a breakout performance from Sara Serraiocco, Cloro is a cinematic journey that promises to immerse viewers in an unforgettable tale of courage and resilience.