Watch The Anonymous Venetian

The Anonymous Venetian is a poignant 1970 Italian film that vividly captures the enchanting beauty of Venice while unfolding a story about lost love, betrayal, and the healing power of music. The movie is directed by legendary Italian filmmaker Enrico Maria Salerno and stars Florinda Bolkan, Tony Musante, and Toti Dal Monte in its leading roles.

The movie begins with a scene of a man sitting in his boat and playing a wistful tune on his violin as he navigates the canals of Venice. We soon learn that this man is Enrico, a successful musician who has returned to Venice after many years to attend a charity concert. He is surprised to find that his ex-wife, Anna, who he hasn't seen in eight years, is also in Venice and is attending the same concert. We sense that there is some unfinished business between them and the movie slowly unravels their complicated past.

Anna is a beautiful and fragile woman who has lost her vivacity and her love for life. She is now married to a wealthy businessman, but she is unhappy and disillusioned with her life. Her husband is not interested in her emotionally, and she feels trapped in a loveless marriage. Enrico, on the other hand, is a sensitive and passionate musician who has never forgotten Anna and the love they shared. He is struggling to come to terms with the fact that he and Anna abruptly ended their relationship years ago without any explanation or closure.

The classical music scene in Venice provides a perfect backdrop for the story, and there are several scenes in the movie where we get to see Enrico rehearsing or performing. The movie uses music as a powerful metaphor for the emotions and experiences of the characters. The beautiful compositions by composer Stelvio Cipriani are evocative and moving, and they add depth and richness to the movie.

The movie showcases the intricate beauty of Venice and its canals, streets, and squares. The stunning visuals of this magnificent city are integral to the story itself. Venice is portrayed as a romantic and mysterious city, and the cinematography of the movie captures its essence beautifully.

The acting performances by the leading actors are excellent. Tony Musante is convincing as the brooding and passionate musician, and Florinda Bolkan excels as Anna, portraying a woman who is haunted by her past and struggling to find meaning in her present. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their scenes together are emotionally charged and compelling.

The supporting cast is also noteworthy. Toti Dal Monte plays Enrico's mother who is elegantly dressed and is portrayed as someone who misses her son and wishes to see him happy. Other notable performances include Renato Salvatori, who plays Enrico's best friend, and Lilla Brignone, who plays Anna's mother.

Overall, The Anonymous Venetian is a slow-paced, introspective movie that is about much more than just lost love. It delves into the themes of mortality, redemption, and the healing power of music. The movie doesn't offer easy answers or a neat resolution, but it left me with a sense of melancholy and reflection.