Unveiling Parthenope (2024): An In-Depth Movie Review You Can’t Miss!

Parthenope, 2024

Written and directed by Paolo Sorrentino, this film features a talented cast including Celeste Dalla Porta, Gary Oldman, and Stefania Sandrelli.

SYNOPSIS:

Set in Naples, Parthenope tells the story of a young woman born from the sea in 1950. She is captivating, intelligent, and the object of affection for many. However, her beauty brings challenges.

In Sorrentino’s film, Parthenope is not just a pretty face. Named after a siren from Greek mythology, she explores life and her identity. Celeste Dalla Porta delivers a mesmerizing performance in this leading role. However, the film sometimes gets lost in its stunning Italian backdrops and a series of loosely connected events.

Sorrentino, known for his focus on beauty, dives into themes of youth and desire. While he captures the allure of Italy beautifully through cinematographer Daria D’Antonio, the film sometimes feels like a repeat of his earlier works, like The Great Beauty and Youth. You might find yourself wishing for more depth rather than just visual splendor.

The story follows Parthenope’s journey from a naïve girl to a complex woman. It begins with her childhood near the sea, then jumps forward to her as a young adult. Throughout her life, she encounters various characters who are drawn to her beauty, including older admirers and peers. She grapples with questions about her identity, ambition, and the power her looks hold.

Her adventures range from impactful summer vacations to meeting influential authors (including a brief but notable appearance by Gary Oldman). As she delves into anthropology and seeks to understand human nature, she faces challenges that shape her view of the world.

Ultimately, Sorrentino seems to convey that beauty and youth are fleeting. Parthenope learns that true appreciation of life comes with experience and understanding, not just external allure. While her journey includes significant loss and difficult choices, the storytelling occasionally lacks clarity, making it hard to fully grasp her development.

Even though Parthenope can feel slow at times, it’s a visually stunning film with a captivating lead. It offers potential for rich storytelling, but sometimes misses the mark in delivering deeper insights into the characters and themes.

Rating: Film: ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★

Robert Kojder is a film critic and member of various film associations. For more insights, check out his profiles on BlueSky or Letterboxd.