Le Pupille

Le Pupille is a short film directed by Alice Rohrwacher, starring Alba Rohrwacher, Greta Zuccheri Montanari, and Carmen Pommella, that takes us into the world of a religious boarding school during the tumultuous times of World War II. As the movie progresses, viewers are introduced to a fascinating tale that combines elements of drama and comedy with a sharp critique of the contradictory tenets of faith, innocence, and the human spirit.

The film is set in an all-girls Catholic boarding school run by nuns and follows the lives of young girls who are navigating the complexities of growing up against the backdrop of war. The central figure among the girls is Greta Zuccheri Montanari's character, an outspoken and precocious child whose perspective and actions drive much of the narrative. Alba Rohrwacher delivers a nuanced performance, embodying a character whose faith and duties are put to the test by the daily challenges of wartime scarcity and the rebellious spirits of the young girls.

Le Pupille shines a light on the austerity of life in a religious institution where discipline and devotion are expected to preside. The nuns, overseen by Carmen Pommella's stern character, are the faithful custodians of the girls. They are tasked with imparting moral lessons and maintaining order, but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the line between the authoritarian figures of the convent and the innocent youth they supervise blurs in unexpected ways.

The film artfully captures the atmosphere of the era, with meticulous attention to detail in costumes, set design, and a carefully curated soundtrack that enhances the mood without overwhelming the story. There is a sense of authenticity that envelops the narrative, transporting viewers to a different time while still maintaining a timeless quality that resonates with contemporary themes.

A standout feature of Le Pupille is the masterful way it explores the dynamics of power, authority, and rebellion. The young girls represent a microcosm of a world on the brink of change, their small acts of defiance reflecting larger societal shifts. Through sly glances, secret exchanges, and the coded language of children, they negotiate their place within the strict confines of the convent, revealing their inner worlds filled with imagination, hope, and mischief.

Humor is adeptly woven through what could otherwise be a somber narrative. The interplay between the nuns and the young girls often leads to unexpected moments of levity that highlight the absurdity of certain stringent religious practices. There are laughs to be had, but they are never at the expense of the characters' dignity; rather, they emerge naturally from the situations in which the individuals find themselves trapped by circumstance and expectation.

The theme of sacrifice is a recurring thread throughout Le Pupille, framing both the moral teachings of the nuns and the personal experiences of the girls. The characters are confronted with choices that test their commitments and desires, raising questions about the nature of sacrifice and who it truly serves. The film subtly probes the ways in which religious education influences personal growth and the understanding of one's role in society.

Despite its historical setting, the narrative feels remarkably current, touching upon questions of autonomy, institutional power, and the pursuit of personal desires. It challenges viewers to reflect on the impact of education in shaping young minds and the importance of questioning established norms.

At its heart, Le Pupille is a coming-of-age tale, but it is also a story about collective experience and the shared humanity that can emerge under the most trying of circumstances. The film handles its characters with care, each of them a fully realized individual with their own dreams, fears, and complexities. The performances, both from the seasoned actors and the young novices, are compelling and contribute significantly to the film's emotional resonance.

Le Pupille is a testament to the enduring spirit of storytelling, a succinct yet poignant exploration of character and setting that leaves a lasting impression. In its brief runtime, the film manages to create a rich, evocative world that invites introspection and empathy. It celebrates the resilient nature of children and the endurance of hope in times of adversity, all while providing an incisive commentary on tradition and progress.

Directed with sensitivity and an eye for both the grand and minute aspects of life, Le Pupille serves as a showcase for Alice Rohrwacher's directorial prowess. It is a film that transcends the confines of its short format, offering audiences a layered, affecting experience that will linger long after the curtains close.