First Love (2004 Italian film)

First Love (Primo Amore) is a 2004 Italian film directed by Matteo Garrone, based on the novel by Marco Mariolini. The film explores themes of obsession, love, and the transformation of the body, set against the backdrop of contemporary Italy. It tells the story of Vittorio, a goldsmith who becomes obsessed with Sonia, a young woman he wishes to transform into his ideal of perfect beauty. The narrative delves into the dark aspects of love and control, showcasing Garrone's ability to navigate complex emotional landscapes.

Plot

The film opens with Vittorio, a solitary goldsmith, who encounters Sonia, a woman he is instantly drawn to. Vittorio's attraction soon turns into an obsession, as he convinces Sonia to embark on a relationship with him. However, this relationship is far from normal; Vittorio's love is conditional upon Sonia undergoing a drastic and dangerous weight loss to fit his exacting standards of beauty. The film follows Sonia's struggle with her self-image and her desire to be loved, set against Vittorio's manipulative affections and controlling behavior. As Sonia becomes more entangled in Vittorio's web, the film explores the limits of love and obsession, leading to a shocking conclusion.

Cast

• Michela Cescon as Sonia
• Vitaliano Trevisan as Vittorio
• Roberto Comacchio
• Paolo Caoduro
• Lidia Vettore

Production

Directed by Matteo Garrone, First Love is noted for its stark portrayal of obsession and the transformation of the body. Garrone, who co-wrote the screenplay with Massimo Gaudioso, draws heavily from the novel by Marco Mariolini, adapting its themes to the screen with a keen eye for the complexities of human relationships. The film's production involved a minimalist approach, with a focus on the performances of its lead actors, particularly Michela Cescon and Vitaliano Trevisan, whose portrayals of Sonia and Vittorio are central to the film's emotional impact.

Themes

First Love delves into the themes of obsession, control, and the idealization of beauty. It examines how love can be twisted into a form of control, where one person seeks to mold another into their vision of perfection. The film also explores the societal pressures surrounding body image and the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve or resist these ideals. Garrone's direction and the screenplay's adaptation of Mariolini's novel present a critical look at the destructive nature of these obsessions, offering a poignant commentary on the human condition.

Reception

Upon its release, First Love received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, particularly those of Cescon and Trevisan. Critics praised Garrone's ability to navigate the film's challenging themes with sensitivity and depth. However, the film also sparked debate regarding its portrayal of body image and the ethics of depicting such extreme transformations. Despite these controversies, First Love is considered an important work in Garrone's filmography, showcasing his talent for storytelling and his ability to explore the darker aspects of love and desire.

See Also

• Italian cinema
• Matteo Garrone
• Obsession in film