Movie spotlight
In a small suburb on the outskirts of Rome, the cheerful heat of summer camouflages a stifling atmosphere of alienation. From a distance, the families seem normal, but it’s an illusion: in the houses, courtyards and gardens, silence shrouds the subtle sadism of the fathers, the passivity of the mothers and the guilty indifference of adults. But it’s the desperation and repressed rage of the children that will explode and cut through this grotesque façade, with devastating consequences for the entire community.
Set in Rome during a sweltering summer, the film follows several interconnected stories of middle-class families grappling with mundane yet significant issues. From marital strife and familial misunderstandings to the anxieties of daily life, the narrative weaves through the lives of its characters as they navigate the challenges of relationships and societal expectations.
Bad Tales received a mixed to positive reception from critics, with many praising its observational humor and authentic portrayal of everyday Italian life. Some reviewers found the episodic structure a bit disjointed, but generally appreciated the film's charm and relatable characters.
Praised for its witty and often melancholic look at contemporary family dynamics.
Appreciated for its authentic performances and slice-of-life approach.
Some found the interconnected storylines to be somewhat loose.
Google audience: Google users largely responded positively to Bad Tales, appreciating its realistic portrayal of familial relationships and the humor found in everyday situations. The film's ability to capture the nuances of modern life resonated well with audiences.
The film is directed by and stars Gianni Di Gregorio, who also directed and starred in the critically acclaimed 'Mid-August Lunch' (Pranzo di Ferragosto), another film focusing on Italian family life and aging.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources
This is a fairly savage indictment of suburban family living. Set on the outskirts of Rome - but it could as easily be London or Paris, this swaps the role normalcies of aspects of parenthood and visits the perceived sins of the parents bac...