Stay As You Are

Stay As You Are is a 1978 Italian erotic drama film directed by Alberto Lattuada. Known in Italian as "Cosi come sei," the film stars Marcello Mastroianni and Nastassja Kinski, with supporting performances by Francisco Rabal and others. Filled with lush cinematography, compelling performances, and an engaging storyline, Stay As You Are explores the complexities of desire, love, and age differences while expertly navigating the controversial theme of forbidden love.

In this provocative and emotional drama, Mastroianni plays the role of Giulio Marengo, a prosperous Florentine landscaper in his late 50s. Enjoying the fruits of his successful career, Giulio is primarily content but privately feels the emptiness of a dull, passionless marriage. This predictability in his life is shaken, however, when an unexpected encounter introduces him to the younger Francesca (played by Nastassja Kinski). Francesca, a vivacious and radiant young woman studying architecture in Florence, parallels Giulio's passion for design and creativity, initially attracting Giulio's attention. As the mutual attraction turns into infatuation, Giulio becomes enmeshed in a powerful connection with Francesca, subsequently pulling the rug out from his comfortable existence.

The narrative truly distinguishes this film by exploring an illicit love story filled with temptation and hesitation. The chemistry between Mastroianni and Kinski is palpable, bringing forth an element of genuine believability in their relationship's natural progression. The seasoned Mastroianni delivers a captivating performance as his character grapples with the morality of his actions and the possible repercussions they may cause. At the same time, Francesca, interpreted by a young Nastassja Kinski, brings a sense of innocent provocativeness to her character, making it easy to understand Giulio's intense fascination.

Directed by Alberto Lattuada, Stay As You Are delves into an often taboo subject, dissecting it with its unabashed portrayal. Lattuada's handling of this complex theme is commendable, never resorting to judgment of his characters' decisions but instead demonstrating an understanding of their complex emotional world. The film's cinematography effectively captures both the eternal beauty of Florence and the colourful panorama of 1970s Italy, making it an artful backdrop against which this sensual drama unfolds.

The inclusion of Francisco Rabal in the supporting cast adds depth to the story. Rabal plays Ippolito, Francesca's estranged father, who brings a separate relationship dynamic into the narrative, complicating the romantic plotline and adding another layer of moral grappling as it integrates family dynamics into the scenario. Alongside themes of infidelity, age difference, and temptation, the film also looks at certain societal attitudes and taboos prevalent during this time, adding more substance to its narrative content.

Though it may appear as a controversial examination of an unlikely romantic relationship, the film explores love's natural complexity and irrationality, acting as a character study that throws light on human actions driven by desire rather than societal norms. Stay As You Are rides on the performances of its seasoned and upcoming actors and the director's ability to paint a stirring visual narrative, making it a must-watch for all admirers of European cinema.

'Stay As You Are' has a complexity that only European cinema of the 70s era offers wrapped in a simple, seductive, and compelling story. It's an engaging journey made real by the subtlety of the performances, the elegance of Lattuada's direction, and a nuanced script. The film serves as an excellent exploration of human emotions and desires, marked by passion, vulnerability, and ultimately, the realization of one's self. A beautiful harmony of romance and realism, Stay As You Are perfectly encapsulates the bygone era of 70s, portraying a tale of love exploring its complicated depths.