One wonders sometimes how can people go insane over a failed relationship, something that after seeing "A Journey Called Love" is almost too difficult to explain easily. Love being a rapturous period in the lives of two people can have a horrible effect on one of the lovers, as it's clearly shown in Michele Placido's film.
A young schizophrenic poet, Dino Campana, falls in love with a famous writer, Sibila Aleramo. At first, everything seems idyllic, but as they get more involved in their affair, it becomes clear Sibila has made a terrible mistake because Dino's own disease is making him go to extremes that no one can control. But here's the question: Who can tell one's heart the person loved is not in his right mind? Certainly, not Sibila, who loves without realizing what she has gotten into. Sibila's own life has not exactly been a rosy one. She was sexually abused as a child and has married a man she doesn't love. Add to that the natural jealousy that arises from her notoriety in comparison with Dino's. She didn't have it easy.
The film was a surprise, as Mr. Placido's work is worth seeing. Being an actor he knows what to expect from his cast and crew. Laura Morante makes a fine Sibila. This actress is a marvel in her approach to her character. Ms. Morante never gives a false performance. On the other hand, we felt that Stefano Acorsi was miscast as Dino Campana. He never makes us believe he is that man, even at those moments in which he is supposed to be a mad man. Katy Louise Saunders made an impression as young Sibila and Galatea Ranzi and Diego Ribon have some moments.
We were impressed by Luca Bigazzi cinematography. He likes those ocher tones and he bathes his frames with those vibrant Italian colors that are so easy on the eye. Carlo Crivelli wrote the interesting music score that serves the narrative well.
One looks forward to Michele Placido's next ventures since he proves he is a man of vision.
A young schizophrenic poet, Dino Campana, falls in love with a famous writer, Sibila Aleramo. At first, everything seems idyllic, but as they get more involved in their affair, it becomes clear Sibila has made a terrible mistake because Dino's own disease is making him go to extremes that no one can control. But here's the question: Who can tell one's heart the person loved is not in his right mind? Certainly, not Sibila, who loves without realizing what she has gotten into. Sibila's own life has not exactly been a rosy one. She was sexually abused as a child and has married a man she doesn't love. Add to that the natural jealousy that arises from her notoriety in comparison with Dino's. She didn't have it easy.
The film was a surprise, as Mr. Placido's work is worth seeing. Being an actor he knows what to expect from his cast and crew. Laura Morante makes a fine Sibila. This actress is a marvel in her approach to her character. Ms. Morante never gives a false performance. On the other hand, we felt that Stefano Acorsi was miscast as Dino Campana. He never makes us believe he is that man, even at those moments in which he is supposed to be a mad man. Katy Louise Saunders made an impression as young Sibila and Galatea Ranzi and Diego Ribon have some moments.
We were impressed by Luca Bigazzi cinematography. He likes those ocher tones and he bathes his frames with those vibrant Italian colors that are so easy on the eye. Carlo Crivelli wrote the interesting music score that serves the narrative well.
One looks forward to Michele Placido's next ventures since he proves he is a man of vision.