God Willing

God Willing, released in 2015, is an engaging and well-crafted Italian Comedy, directed by Edoardo Falcone. The film features a noteworthy ensemble starring Marco Giallini, Alessandro Gassmann, and Laura Morante, who deliver superb performances worthy of the golden screen. Set in the city of Rome, the movie vividly captures everyday life, family dynamics, and the great masses' faith and loss of it.

The narrative revolves around the delightful character of Tommaso (Marco Giallini), a successful and self-assured heart surgeon who is also proud to be an atheist. He detests any manner in which faith develops in his family. His entire belief system is faced with an unexpected challenge when his only son, Andrea (Enrico Oetiker), expresses his aspirations to join the seminary and devote his life to priesthood.

This announcement is not received well, particularly by Tommaso, who, in his atheist beliefs, views God and religion as nothing more than irrational myths. Underlying Tommaso's vehement reaction is deep concern for his son, not only regarding Andrea's abrupt choice but about whom he suspects has influenced his son's decision.

In his quest to discourage Andrea, Tommaso decides to investigate what he assumes to be a religious cult connected to the charismatic Father Pietro (Alessandro Gassmann). Pietro, however, is no cult leader; he's simply a free-spirited priest with a genuine desire to help others. The ironic twist begins when Father Pietro's empathetic approach starts influencing Tommaso instead.

Laura Morante plays Carla, Tommaso's wife, who is mostly distant from the argument integrating her husband and son. Her character reveals an undercurrent of life dissatisfaction, which adds another layer to the family drama. She seeks escapism through theater but isn't as successful as she would like to be.

Being a classical family-centric comedy-drama, God Willing brilliantly introduces various pivotal subplots to enhance the main story about Tommaso's journey. These subplots and supporting character arcs are woven seamlessly into the primary narrative. The cinematic experience becomes even more fascinating when the focus shifts to showcase Tommaso's evolving understanding of faith and its impact on those surrounding him.

The screenplay, penned by Edoardo Falcone and Marco Martani, adeptly demonstrates a balance between topical humor and depth grounded in sincerity, addressing conflicts between faith and reason. The humor in the film is driven by character and situation than by spinning punchlines, making for a more authentic and relatable narrative. The dialogues are witty and thought-provoking, making viewers smile while inviting them to ponder deeper ideas.

God Willing is evocative visually, with the architectural richness of Rome serving as an alluring backdrop to the unfolding events. The renowned Italian cinematographer, Tommaso Borgstrom, masterfully depicts the city in its most simple, day-to-day glory, connecting the family's intimate narrative with a broader, universal human experience.

Marco Giallini, as the central character, offers a compelling performance, portraying the evolution of Tommaso's character with amusing wit and emotional depths. It's a delight to watch him navigate his journey from a cynical, determined atheist to a man questioning his rigid belief system. Alessandro Gassmann plays the unconventional priest with a blend of charisma and kindness, making Father Pietro an endearing character. Laura Morante’s portrayal of a disappointed yet fiercely independent Carla adds depth and complexity to the overall film.

In summary, God Willing is a delightful introspective drama that explores the complexities of faith and family dynamics. With outstanding performances from its star cast, a smart and engaging script, and beautiful cinematography, the film offers a captivating blend of humor and sincerity. It's more than just an entertaining watch - it's a profound exploration of belief systems and the humanity shared by believers and non-believers alike. The charm of this film lies in its ability to question and invite viewers to reflect without imposing any answers. It creates a space to appreciate life's paradoxes, wrapped in delightful humor and unforgettable characters.