Watch The Light in the Piazza

The Light in the Piazza (1962) is a romantic drama film directed by Guy Green and starring Olivia de Havilland, George Hamilton, and Yvette Mimieux. The movie is based on the 1960 novella of the same name by Elizabeth Spencer. The story is set in Italy in the 1950s, and it revolves around the experiences of a wealthy Southern American mother, Margaret Johnson (Olivia de Havilland), and her daughter, Clara (Yvette Mimieux), who is mentally challenged. They are traveling through Tuscan countryside where they encounter a charming young man, Fabrizio Naccarelli (George Hamilton), a local from a well-known Florence family. Margaret is initially hesitant to let Clara spend time with Fabrizio, but over time, she realizes that he may be the perfect match for her daughter. The film follows the evolution of Clara's complex relationship with Fabrizio, as he tries to win her heart even though he is engaged to another woman.

The Light in the Piazza is a visually stunning movie that captures the picturesque Italian countryside and the architectural beauty of Florence. The film's cinematography, which won an Academy Award, is breathtaking and helps to tell the story visually. The music, composed by Adam Guettel, is also noteworthy, with its melodic, operatic score.

One of the highlights of the film is the strong performances by its principal actors. Olivia de Havilland, who was nominated for an Academy Award for her portrayal of Margaret, brings depth and nuance to her character. She is conflicted between wanting her daughter to be happy and her fear of the unknown. George Hamilton, as Fabrizio, is charming and confident, and brings a sense of youthful energy to the film. Yvette Mimieux, in one of her earliest roles, is convincing as Clara, the vulnerable and sensitive young woman at the center of the story.

Besides being a love story, The Light in the Piazza touches on themes of cultural differences, human connections, and the quest for happiness. The film explores the tensions and misunderstandings that arise from differences in language, customs, and expectations between Italians and Americans. Margaret struggles to understand the cultural nuances of Italian society, while Fabrizio and his family are similarly perplexed by the behavior of Clara and her mother.

The film's examination of mental disability is also noteworthy. Clara's condition is not stigmatized, and she is treated with sensitivity and dignity. Her challenges are shown to be a part of her, but do not define her entirely. The way that her limitations are interwoven with her emotional journey is done subtly and tactfully.

Overall, The Light in the Piazza is a compelling and affecting film that explores complex human relationships and the struggles that come with them. The movie draws the viewer into its world with its stunning visuals, moving performances, and heartfelt story. The film's themes feel relevant even today and make it worth watching for those in search of a poignant and thought-provoking romantic drama.

The Light in the Piazza is a 1962 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.