Watch Italian Studies

Italian Studies is a drama film that follows the life of an enigmatic author known simply as "the woman" (Vanessa Kirby), as she wanders around the streets of New York. The film, directed by Adam Leon, also stars David Ajala and Annika Wahlsten. The plot of the movie is centered around "the woman" who experiences a writer's block and starts wandering in New York City hoping to find inspiration. Along the way, she finds herself in bizarre situations and unexpected encounters that continue to inspire her in mysterious ways. The movie is shot in black and white which adds a melancholy effect to the story.

The way the story unfolds is slowly and meticulously, mirroring the central character's introspective approach to life. Her exploration of the city and the people she meets seem inconclusive, but as the narrative progresses, we begin to understand that she is in search of something far more profound than inspiration. "The woman" is lost and fragile, and her journey around the city is her attempt to find herself again.

Throughout the picture, Vanessa Kirby showcases her exceptional acting abilities. Her portrayal of "the woman" is subtle and nuanced, and she captures the character's complexity exceptionally well. Her interactions with other characters in the movie are also compelling, but the inner turmoil she portrays is the most impressive.

David Ajala gives a remarkable performance in the movie as "the man." He encounters "the woman" in a series of fleeting moments, and his presence disrupts her wandering. He adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the film's theme of self-discovery.

Annika Wahlsten, although she doesn't have a lot of screen time, delivers a powerful performance as a young student learning Italian. Her scenes with "the woman" have an emotional weight that adds to the film's texture.

The film's cinematography is another highlight of the movie. The decision to shoot the movie in black and white enhances the film's artistic value, giving it a timeless quality. The depiction of the city, the streets, and the buildings all lend to the movie's themes of self-discovery and loneliness.

The movie's score adds to the film's tone and melancholic atmosphere. The music sets the pace for the narrative as sharply as any other aspect of the production, helping to make it an emotive and authentic statement.

Overall, "Italian Studies" is a poignant and introspective drama that examines what makes us human while exploring the vagaries of creativity, resilience, and melancholy. It's a personal journey that's both contemplative and thought-provoking, and although the story is open to interpretation, it's one that will resonate with individual viewers who have embarked on their paths to self-discovery. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a unique and different kind of cinematic experience.

In conclusion, "Italian Studies" is a slow-burning, artistically shot film that sees its central character wander the streets of New York in search of inspiration, but ultimately unearths far more profound discoveries. It's a movie that requires an open mind and an appreciation for the subtlety seen in the creative arts but rewards those who commit their time with a moving, thought-provoking experience.

Italian Studies is a 2022 drama. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.7 and a MetaScore of 59.