Incantato

Review by Vittorio J. Carli

for Reel Movie Critic

***

"Incantato" is a lovely, bittersweet romantic drama about a timid, romantically challenged man who becomes obsessed with a blind femme fatale. Talented Italian filmmaker, Pupi Avati (who had a huge international hit in the early `90s, "The Story of Boys and Girls"), directs this film. Shot in Avati's native Bologna, the film makes great use of the gorgeous local décor.

The introverted Nello (played by the comedian, Neri Marcori) finds fulfillment from teaching classical texts, but his personal life is less satisfactory. He has had far more experience with books than women, and he has no idea how to attract women. His relatives take pity on him, and they push him to attend a dance where blind women can meet prospective mates. The "blind date" is a disaster but he does meet Angela, a lusty, visually impaired woman who uses him to make her real lover jealous. Eventually he begins to fall for her, but it seems unlikely that a woman that unstable will prove to be an adequate long-term companion. The convincing, natural performances help to put the film over, and Neri makes a great romantic anti-hero. "Incantato" is a touching and absorbing look at a doomed love affair.