When You Be Me

A young Italian-American woman named Sofia returns to her ancestral village in Southern Italy to uncover the truth about her family's past. As she delves deeper, she becomes entangled in the complex local culture and discovers long-buried secrets that challenge her own identity. Sofia must confront a difficult choice that will shape her future and her connection to her heritage.

When You Be Me was met with a generally positive reception from critics, who praised its atmospheric direction and strong performances, particularly from its lead actress. While some found the pacing occasionally slow, the film was largely commended for its intimate portrayal of cultural identity and family dynamics.

• Praised for its evocative cinematography and immersive atmosphere.

• Commended for a compelling central performance that anchors the emotional narrative.

• Some critics noted a deliberate, slow-burn pacing that may not appeal to all viewers.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's emotional depth and its exploration of themes like belonging and heritage. Many highlighted the beautiful scenery and the touching story as significant positives, though a small number found the narrative a bit too understated at times.

Nominated for Best Cinematography at the Venice Film Festival.

The film was shot entirely on location in a small village in Calabria, Italy, using many non-professional actors from the local community.