Who Will Save the Roses?

"Who Will Save the Roses?" is a captivating 2017 film that resonates with heartfelt emotions, and intertwines themes of love, companionship, aging, and dreams in an unusually beautiful manner. The Italian movie is an emotional rollercoaster where sorrow and joy cohabit, painting a realistic image of life, mortality and human resilience.

At the center of this narrative is Giulio Andreotti, played by the esteemed actor Carlo Delle Piane. Andreotti is a retired marketing executive who spends his days tending to his cherished rose garden. He lives in a quaint old house filled with antique objects and his precious roses. The protagonist is aging not just in the physical sense; his memories, too, are losing their clarity, signs of the onset of Alzheimer’s that he can no longer ignore. His world revolves around Claudio (Lando Buzzanca), his partner of many years, and their dog, Beethoven.

The movie meticulously depicts the experiences and challenges of dealing with dementia from the patient's perspective. Andreotti’s character brilliantly displays the confusion and vulnerability of Alzheimer patients as they navigate through a world that is slipping away from their grasp. Throughout the story, his love for roses and the significance of these flowers become a recurring motif symbolising his lucid dreams, distant memories, and emotional anchors.

The narrative gains a layer of complexity and intrigue as it introduces to the audience Claudio, Andreotti's companion, powerfully portrayed by Lando Buzzanca. Claudio is a former boxing champion, who, despite his macho past, displays tenderness and dedication towards Andreotti. Showing admirable patience and understanding, he helps Andreotti to cope with his progressing illness, ensuring his partner receives comfort, dignity, and love.

Then enters Caterina, portrayed by the enchanting Caterina Murino. Caterina, a Social Services Inspector, adds another dimension to the story. She brings a new energy and perspective to the film as she gets deeply involved in the couple’s life. Her interaction with the couple opens up conversations about human compassion, the roles of caregivers, the responsibility of society towards its aging citizens and the underrepresented voices in our society.

Under the director Giancarlo Nanni's guidance, "Who Will Save the Roses?" comes alive to question and challenge societal norms surrounding older adults and probes into issues like Alzheimer's, LGBT relationships, and the nuances of companionship in old age. Nanni crafts an intimate world that centers on aging, love, and human connection with sensitivity and humor. His style endows the film with a smooth rhythm, balancing drama and emotion in perfect harmony.

The cinematography by Duccio Cimatti is noteworthy as he uses visuals beautifully to convey the narrative. The rose garden, the old antique-filled house, and the emotional close-ups bring forth a spectrum of emotions - from tranquility, nostalgia, and intense emotions to the harsh realities of life. The color palette of the film reflects the tone of the narrative and complements the plot.

The performances by Carlo Delle Piane and Lando Buzzanca are outstanding; they breathe life into their characters and carry the emotional weight of the film effortlessly. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, and their portrayal of a committed, aging couple dealing with life's harshest blows is nothing short of magnificent. Caterina Murino, with her powerful performance, leaves a strong imprint on the narrative.

"Who Will Save the Roses?" is a poignant, powerful, and captivating film that leaves the audience with a meaningful message. It does not provide a picturesque vision of aging, rather it provides a window into the realities of the process, the fears, losses, and challenges that come with it. The film also underscores the importance of love, dreams, resilience, dignity, and humanity in the face of adversity.

In essence, "Who Will Save the Roses?" is a tale that's deeply human and profoundly touching. This film underscores the importance of love, traffic bonds, and resilience through various means, proving to be an unforgettable cinematic experience. Prepare to let it tug at your heartstrings as it takes you on a journey that beautifully encapsulates the undying spirit of human resilience and the profound nature of love and aging.