Watch Incompresa

Incompresa is a coming-of-age drama set in Rome, Italy, in the 1980s, directed by Asia Argento. The film follows Aria, a bright and creative nine-year-old girl, who is struggling to deal with the conflict-ridden world around her. Her parents, played by Charlotte Gainsbourg and Gabriel Garko, are separated, and her mother is too busy with her career as an actress to pay much attention to her daughter's needs. Her father is frequently absent and has a new girlfriend, who treats Aria with disdain.

Aria is an imaginative and passionate child who finds solace in art and writing. She believes she is a misunderstood genius, and her work reflects the vividness of her imagination. However, her teachers and peers can't understand her odd behavior and quirky sense of humor. Moreover, her parents don't take her seriously and don't acknowledge her talents, which leads to resentment and rebellion.

Despite her isolation, Aria seeks refuge in her friendship with a boy from her class, who indulges in the same creative activities. They spend their afternoons exploring the city and imagining their future as artists. However, their friendship is tested when a tragic event forces Aria to confront the cruelty and indifference of the adult world. She is left disillusioned and despairing, unable to find a way to connect with the people around her.

Incompresa is a profoundly personal film that reflects Asia Argento's own troubled childhood and the emotional struggles of growing up as the daughter of two famous actors, Dario Argento and Daria Nicolodi. The film depicts a vivid and colorful world that contrasts sharply with the harsh realities of life, and it captures the essence of what it means to be young and misunderstood in a world that's hostile and indifferent.

Giulia Salerno delivers a stunning performance as Aria, capturing the child's innocence, vulnerability, and defiance with exceptional sensitivity. Her character is both charming and infuriating, as she oscillates between moments of childish exuberance and profound introspection. Charlotte Gainsbourg and Gabriel Garko also deliver nuanced and convincing performances as Aria's parents, depicting the complexity of their relationship with their daughter and their inability to relate to her on an emotional level.

The film's visual style is equally impressive, with lavish colors and textures that evoke the creative world of Aria's imagination. The cinematography is exquisitely composed, underscoring the contrast between the vibrancy of the city and the monotony of everyday life. The soundtrack, featuring an eclectic mix of Italian pop songs and electronic music, adds to the film's dreamy and melancholic atmosphere.

In summary, Incompresa is a moving and poignant film that captures the essence of childhood and adolescence with exceptional sensitivity and insight. It's a film about the struggle to find meaning and connection in a world that's often cruel and indifferent. Asia Argento's vision and Giulia Salerno's performance make this film a must-see for anyone who loves cinema that explores the human experience with honesty and depth.