The film conveys little understanding of, or even curiosity about, Sapienza’s literary talents; noting, in the final moments, that she is “considered among the greatest writers of the twentieth century,” it trusts the uninitiated to shrug and move on.

Martone might counter that the episode features in the novel, and that it shows the ease the women have developed with one another. Here, though, it just feels creepy. Which is a shame because the film has other things to recommend it...

Directed efficiently if too tamely by Mario Martone (Nostalgia), and starring Cannes regular Valeria Golino (Rain Man), the film should find an audience in places where Sapienza’s books are popular, mainly Italy and France.

nder the guise of a biopic of Goliarda Sapienza, his latest film exposes the social pressures faced by women during that era. [Full review in Spanish]