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Gianni Di Gregorio, the much put-upon specimen of Roman manhood from surprise art-house hit Mid-August Lunch, returns to similarly amusing effect in this wonderfully observed comedy pitting autumnal romantic yearning against the uncooperative realities of house-husband existence. Having taken early retirement, Gianni spends his days running errands and dog-walking when he’s not at the beck and call of his formidable mama (the amazing 96-year-old De Franciscis Bendoni), still ruling his life from the old folks home. When a lawyer pal suggests an affair might perk him up, Gianni’s mind starts wandering, yet his hangdog looks suggest a man long resigned to life’s disappointments. In other hands, this might have turned out an uncomfortable tale of middle-aged lechery, yet Di Gregorio’s shambling protagonist is such a sweet-natured type that we can’t help rooting for him as the film’s episodic misadventures unfold. Vino bianco in hand, pained look in his eyes, he’s a Marcello Mastroianni for the Viagra generation. It’s a wonderful film. (Notes by Trevor Johnston). IFI IRISH SHORTS
This screening will include the IFB-funded short animation Loft directed by Gareth Chambers. 5 minutes, 2010, Colour.