THE STORY OF BOYS AND GIRLS/ STORIA DI RAGAZZI E RAGAZZE

Italy, 1989, 87 minutes, Colour.
Lucrezia Lante della Rovere, Davide, Bechini.
Directed by Pupi Avati.

An Italian memoir, set in the mid-1930s near Bologna, two families (and the class distinctions) as they join for an engagement dinner (20 courses served by the country family to the bemused city family). In black and white, it is like photos of the period come to life, reminding us of how human nature remains the same, strengths and weaknesses, love and hurt. the characters are mostly eccentric (aren’t we all?) In the film will appeal to lovers of Italian Cinema.

1. An entertaining Italian film? The work of the director, his perspectives on Italian life? Humane?

2. An Italian story, characters – but universal characters and appeal?

3. The country estate, the home, the grounds, the banquet? The contrast with Bologna, the city? The contrast between city and country?

4. The large range of characters, editing, pace, the strength of the dialogue? The musical score?

5. The black-and-white photography, like photos from the 1930s, bringing this period to life in a stylised way?

6. Engagement party, the 20 courses, the preparation, the many cooks, the serving, the guests, interactions?

7. Sylvia, in herself, age, experience, the background of her family, her love for Angelo?

8. Angelo’s mother, in Bologna, looking down on Sylvia’s family and class, the more benign approach of Angelo’s sisters? The shared views?

9. The train trip, the married sister, the discussions, anticipation?

10. The range of guests, the family, the older salesman, the Frenchwoman accompanying him…?

11. The dinner, the courses, interactions, discussions, the nature of fidelity, love and affection, class distinctions, the revelation of secrets?

12. The end of the day, people the same, but some imperceptible changes?