Mid-August lunch
02 Nov 2011
Italy
2008
75 min
Director: Gianni Di Gregorio
Not as lightweight or insignificant a story as it might appear, this comedy/drama takes a loving look at the lives of four elderly ladies and the man, Gianni, (Gianni DiGregorio, who also directs) who finds himself taking care of them all almost by accident over the course of an August public holiday when their own families ‘have better things to do’ Much of the dialogue feels improvised (several of the leading ladies are non-actors) and the overall tone is of a relaxed, languid meditation on companionship. Mixed with the gentle comedy and occasional dramatic moments is an unsanctimonious message about how society perceives, and treats, the elderly.