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Angela is a captivating Italian film that follows the life of Angela (Donatella Finocchiaro), a young woman from a small village in Sicily. The story is set in the 60s and it highlights the struggles of living in a traditional society with limited opportunities and a severely patriarchal culture. Despite the odds against her, Angela aspires to become a midwife, a profession that is unfamiliar and disapproved of by her family and her village. She sees midwifery as a way to help other women and also to escape the confines of her own life.

The film is beautifully shot, capturing the stunning Italian landscape, and depicts the era with accuracy, adding a charming sense of nostalgia to the story.

Angela's character is portrayed as a fierce and determined young woman who refuses to be held back by the limitations imposed on her by her society. The audience is taken on a journey through her life, and we see her struggle and persevere in the face of oppression.

As Angela fights for her dreams, she also confronts a range of issues, including the dangers of legal and illegal abortions, the consequences of oppressive marriage traditions, and the inequalities faced by impoverished women. The film does not shy away from highlighting the harsh realities of Angela's world, and the impact it has on her and those around her.

Alongside Angela's journey, we also see the story of Sara (Giulia Bevilacqua), another woman from the village who struggles with her own oppression and is forced into a loveless marriage. Sara's storyline adds another dimension to the film, as she represents the struggle of many women who live under patriarchal societies, who are expected to suppress their own desires and submit to the will of others.

Donatella Finocchiaro delivers a remarkable performance as Angela, bringing depth, charisma, and authenticity to her character. Her portrayal of the young midwife-in-training is nothing less than inspiring, leaving a strong impression on the audience.

Andrea Di Stefano, playing the role of Pasquale, Angela's friend and love interest, complements Finocchiaro’s performance perfectly. Their chemistry is palpable, and their relationship is a compelling subplot that adds emotional depth to the story.

Mario Pupella, another standout in the film, plays Papa Carmelo, Angela's father. Pupella's performance is intense, nuanced, and captivating. His portrayal of a man trying to protect his village's traditions and his family's honor while also caring for his daughter's well-being is masterful.

Overall, Angela is a moving and impactful film that manages to balance a powerful and important message with stunning production values and excellent performances. The story of Angela, her tenacity, and her drive to become a midwife, even in the face of great odds, is an empowering and inspiring story that deserves to be seen by audiences everywhere.

Angela is a 2002 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.0.