Misunderstood
Rome, 1984, Aria is nine-year-old girl. On the verge of divorce, Aria's infantile and selfish parents are too preoccupied with their careers and extra-marital affairs to properly tend to any of Aria's needs. While her two older sisters are pampered, Aria is treated with cold indifference. Yet she yearns to love and to be loved. At school, Aria excels academically but is considered a misfit by everyone. She is misunderstood. Aria finds comfort in her cat - Dac and in her best friend - Angelica. Thrown out of both parents' homes, abandoned by all, even her best friend, Aria finally reaches the limit of what she can bear. She makes an unexpected decision in her life.
Insights
Plot Summary
This coming-of-age drama centers on Aria, a sensitive and imaginative young girl growing up in Rome. The film chronicles her turbulent childhood as she navigates a difficult home life marked by her mother's emotional instability and her father's absence. Aria finds solace in her dreams and her artistic inclinations, attempting to create her own world amidst the chaos of her reality.
Critical Reception
Misunderstood received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising Asia Argento's direction and the performance of the young lead actress. The film was noted for its emotional honesty and unflinching portrayal of childhood trauma, though some found its tone bleak and overwhelming.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its raw emotional intensity and strong directorial vision.
- Commended for the powerful performance of its young lead actress.
- Some found the film's bleak subject matter and tone to be challenging.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not widely available.
Awards & Accolades
Selected for the Un Certain Regard section at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival.
Fun Fact
Asia Argento, who directed and stars in the film, based 'Misunderstood' on her own difficult childhood experiences.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources