Chiara

No doubts, a beautiful film. Not memorable, not impressive, but honest and fair reflection of life, option by option, of Chiara, admirable acted by Margherita Mazzucco.

Being fascinated by Pasolini work, obvious, I am more than subjective writing about this film but its beauty is not reduced to building, costumes and atmosphere but , maybe, has as axis the courage and inspiration to craft its identity, scene by scene , recognizing pieces from films about francis of Assisi but proposing the wise definition of status and straight and vulnerability of woman by Susanna Nichiarelli.

A film telling a so familiar story in precise - gentle manner . This is its special gift. Not a small one, no doubts. Because the miracles, the relation with Francis, the eyes , as bones of Its beauty, its fragil beauty is the basic proof.

I'm so sorry, but it is the truth. It's boring, dark and sleep inducing.

I love this kind of movies, I usually get inspired and keep wanting more. Unfortunately this was not the case. I kept falling asleep and there's no excuse for it.

I was hoping for something like "Brother Sun, Sister Moon" with the benefits of 2022 cinematography and yet, it was a slow burn, dull and full of nothing.

I'm still wondering, why was she a saint?. Just because she followed Saint Francis?. The movie is not clear about it. At one point the righteous answer is a "who cares?".

2 stars, 1 for ambience, 1 for casting.

"Chiara" is a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging film directed by Susanna Nicchiarelli. The movie tells the story of a young woman named Chiara, who is embracing poverty following in her own way St. Francis footsteps.

The film capture the simple and stunning beauty of the architecture and the climate of 13th century . The cinematography is both atmospheric and evocative, creating a sense of intimacy and emotional depth that draws the viewer into Chiara's world and is obviously derived from Pasolini film aestethics.

The performances in the film are superb, particularly the lead actress, Margherita Mazzucco who delivers a nuanced and powerful portrayal of Chiara. Mazzucco's performance is raw and emotionally authentic, capturing Chiara's pain and strength that feels as she struggles to come to terms with her ambition to be a pure Christ follower.

Nicchiarelli's direction is sensitive and insightful, providing a nuanced and thoughtful exploration of a world that seem distant from modern sensitivity but it's actually closer that we think to our young people. The young actors (Mazzucco and Carpenzano and others) as well as the older sisters are in tune with the spirit of the film and create a raw portrait of power and value system of the time. With this wilm Nicchiarelli explore the many ways to be a woman over the centuries (Miss Marx, Nico) and she handle the theme, with a delicate and personal touch, never becoming overly religious, but at the same time going down to the core of aspiring to spiritual perfection.

Overall, "Chiara" is a moving and thought-provoking film that explores the complex world of a spiritual endeavour with a contemporary eye. With its powerful performances, beautiful cinematography, and insightful direction, it is a must-see for anyone interested in true and joyful spiritual search.