A Second Childhood

Synopsis

"A Second Childhood" (original title: "Una sconfinata giovinezza") is a poignant 2010 Italian drama starring Fabrizio Bentivoglio. The film explores the delicate and often painful journey of aging and memory loss through the story of Ferdinando, a man confronted by the onset of Alzheimer's disease. As Ferdinando's cognitive powers fade, his relationships with family members and close friends come under strain, revealing the emotional complexities and challenges faced by those caring for someone with dementia. The movie delicately balances moments of tenderness and heartbreak, offering an introspective look into the human condition and the resilience of love amidst decline.

Cast

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  Fabrizio Bentivoglio

  Lino Settembre

• 

  Francesca Neri

  Francesca "Chicca"

• 

  Lino Capolicchio

  Emilio

• 

  Manuela Morabito

  Teta

• 

  Erika Blanc

  Vedova

• 

  Osvaldo Ruggieri

  Neurologo

Reviews

Critics have offered mixed yet generally positive feedback on "A Second Childhood." On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 6.6/10, reflecting a respectable reception from audiences. Reviewers often praise Fabrizio Bentivoglio's compelling performance, highlighting his authentic portrayal of a man grappling with Alzheimer's. The Guardian noted the film's "sensitive and unflinching approach" to the subject matter, appreciating its emotional depth. However, some critics argue that the narrative moves at a slow pace, which may not appeal to all viewers. Metacritic does not have aggregated scores for the film, but user reviews commend its heartfelt storytelling and realistic depiction of dementia’s impact on both the individual and their loved ones. While not groundbreaking, "A Second Childhood" is recognized for addressing an important and often overlooked topic with sincerity and care, making it a thoughtful watch for audiences interested in character-driven dramas.

See also

The Shawshank Redemption

Joker

Titanic

Shutter Island