Persuasion

Need to Know:
The film is an adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel published in 1817 under the same name. The romance revolves around Anne Elliot, a 27-year-old Englishwoman who, unlike other women of her age, isn’t married yet. She was once in love but was ‘persuaded’ by family and friends to end the relationship because her love interest was not a rich man. However, she deeply loves him and regrets her decision.

Director: Carrie Cracknell
Cast: Dakota Johnson, Cosmo Jarvis, Henry Golding, Richard E. Grant, Nikki Amuka-Bird

Why Is It Worth Watching?
Despite being a centuries-old story, Persuasion is about love, a theme that never gets old. Anne Elliot (Dakota Johnson) was once madly in love with Frederick Wentworth (Cosmo Jarvis), but her family wouldn’t accept his humble origins and she decided to end the relationship. Eight years later, Captain Wentworth enters Anne’s life again, now in a much better position as a captain in the English Navy. However, though they are both still single, things between them are not clear and more complicated than expected. The story is lighthearted and full of unexpected twists. Fans of Austen’s work are not pleased with the adaptation, but they can’t deny that the movie is nicely produced with beautiful and well-researched costumes and the cast is spot on. Even the secondary characters’ performances make it worth a watch. If you enjoy romances with beautiful filmography and great actors, this is a good option for an easy watch with friends, family or, why not, in the company of your significant other.

Under the Amalfi Sun

Need to Know:
The film is an Italian romantic comedy and a sequel to Under the Riccione Sun. The story follows the young romance of Vicenzo and Camilla. However, just like its predecessor, the main character is the destination itself. The young couple put their love to the test on the picturesque Amalfi Coast in Italy while staying in Vincenzo’s father’s incredible holiday house.

Director: Martina Pastori
Cast: Lorenzo Zurzolo, Ludovica Martino, Davide Calgaro, Isabella Ferrari

Why Is It Worth Watching?
The film is a way to travel to the Amalfi Coast without leaving your sofa. The main attraction is undoubtedly the beautiful scenario where the story develops. With impressive takes of Amalfi town, it will make you add this destination to your mustvisit places list. The story itself tells how young and mature adults navigate their love life. Vicenzo (Lorenzo Zurzolo) is a visually impaired young man who is ready to fully commit to his girlfriend Camilla (Ludovica Martino). However, after living apart for a year while she was studying in Canada, she is not so sure of her future with him. Meanwhile, their group of friends and Vicenzo’s parents are having their own doubts regarding their love lives. The story is very bland, but the secondary characters steal the scene and give some interesting insights to the plot. Extra attention goes to Vicenzo’s best friend Furio (Davide Calgaro) and his lack of love experience. The story itself is not exciting, but the cinematography takes you to this little piece of paradise and shows a taste of the life in this touristic destination during the summer months. A must-watch if you are not travelling this summer and want to virtually experience a sunny holiday on the Amalfi Coast.