If Only
If Only

Movie spotlight

If Only

2020
Movie
104 min
Italian

Alma, Jean and Sebastiano, the children of divorced parents, arrive in Rome from Paris on a visit to their father. During a holiday, the family’s tensions come to the surface.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes68%
Metacritic59/100
Google Users75%
Director: Taika WaititiGenres: Comedy, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In this poignant romantic dramedy, a reclusive, melancholic author grieving the loss of his wife finds an unexpected chance to relive the day they met. Through a series of surreal and humorous encounters, he grapples with regret, memory, and the possibility of rewriting his past, all while navigating the complexities of his present.

Critical Reception

If Only received a mixed to positive reception from critics and audiences alike. While some praised its unique premise and emotional depth, others found its execution somewhat uneven. The performances, particularly from the lead, were frequently highlighted as a strong point.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its heartfelt performances and intriguing concept of regret and second chances.

  • Criticized by some for a narrative that occasionally meanders and doesn't fully capitalize on its premise.

  • Appreciated for its blend of humor and pathos, offering a thought-provoking exploration of love and loss.

Google audience: Audience reviews generally found 'If Only' to be a touching and thought-provoking film, with many appreciating the emotional journey and the performances. Some viewers felt the film could have explored its central themes more deeply, but the overall sentiment was positive.

Awards & Accolades

None notable.

Fun Fact

The film was reportedly shot over a condensed period, with much of the dialogue improvised to capture a sense of spontaneity and raw emotion from the actors.

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